On a December 3rd that mixed threats of rain with actual rain, participants and onlookers determined in their hearts that no matter the weather, the Snow Hill Christmas Parade must go on. Parade participants lined up, and a little after 2 p.m., the first group stepped out to begin the 2.5-mile parade route.

The parade lasted about 45 minutes, and so many participated in the parade that participants actually lapped each other before the final Fire and EMS vehicles pulled into the parade line.

The parade consisted of approximately 45 floats. Just a few of those who gave their time and energy to put on a first-class parade included Limited Dance Studio, a variety of churches, a group of horses and riders, a live nativity scene, the Greene Central High School Marching Band, the South Central High School Marching Band, and JROTC cadets.

The Greene County Sheriff, every town and county elected official, the register of deeds, the Clerk of Courts, and Congressman-elect Don Davis all took time from their schedules to make the parade special. Tractors, muscle cars, and clowns added their own flavor to the event.

Most impressive was participation from the area fire departments and EMS services. Eight fire departments, lights flashing and firefighters waving, came from Snow Hill, Hookerton, Arba, Bull Head, Castoria, Fort Run, and Walstonburg. The Greene County Emergency Services also participated. Of course, the final entry was a sleigh carrying Santa.

The kids and kids at heart who lined the parade route were peppered with candy. Nary a Grinch was in sight. I wonder if most of the onlookers even understood the tremendous financial investment the fire departments had in all the equipment that pranced its way along the streets of Snow Hill.

I had a couple of minutes to talk with Santa after the parade. “I was most appreciative of the thoughtful treatment I received from everyone involved,” said the Jolly Old Elf. “I especially appreciate them helping to get me up into that sleigh. After all, I am not as young as I once was,” he said with a wink.

Santa said their children melted his heart. As he rode past, many yelled, “I love you, Santa!” He is already planning for his return trip next year.

All during the parade, I could feel the sense of pride the people of Snow Hill and Greene County have in their community. I was surprised at how many participants – especially those on floats and on the firefighting equipment – were children. I thought to myself – what a wonderful way to build a family tradition of service and sense of community.

Community service is the norm for Greene County – and not just at Christmas time.

As the parade came to an end, I reflected on the hundreds of people who entered into the celebration of this season along those Snow Hill streets.

As Tiny Tim from “A Christmas Carol” would say:

“God bless us – every one!”

Mike Parker is a columnist for the Neuse News. You can reach him at mparker16@gmail.com.