
DANFORTH, Maine — A new tradition was born Friday, Dec. 8, in Danforth as the town held its very first holiday light parade.
Event organizer Holly Dicker said she was approached by Danforth Town Manager Ardis Brown back at the first of November to see if there was enough interest for holding a Christmas light parade in the community.
“After the date was set in stone, I immediately met with Patti Goldings and we started contacting local businesses and citizens to see if they would be willing to put a float in the parade,” Dicker said. “The response I received was overwhelming. When it was all said and done there were 21 floats.”
An award was presented to the best overall float, with the Mill Yard winning the honors with their creative gingerbread house entry. A plaque, purchased with money donated by John Ribe and the town of Danforth, will be displayed in the town office with the winner’s name.
Dicker said a large crowd turned out for both the parade and the activities that followed. After the light parade, Santa Claus lit the town tree and passed out candy bags, which were sponsored by Machias Savings Bank. Members of the fire department started a bonfire, where many local resident sang Christmas songs.
- The East Grand After School Program came up with this interesting holiday float of a festive hippopotamus for the Danforth light parade Dec. 8. (Contributed photo/holly dicker)
- The Danforth Fire Department’s truck was lit up for the town’s inaugural light parade on Dec. 8. (Contributed photo/holly dicker)
- Santa Claus arrived in style Dec. 8 riding on a monster truck for the inaugural Danforth holiday light parade. (Contributed photo/holly dicker)