Charm, cheer fill streets
Andrews Main Street, dotted with boisterous children, strolling adults and even a goat on a leash, remained dark Saturday night, causing the expectant parade attendees to question if the Grinch had stolen their Christmas Parade. However, after getting off to a late start, the restless crowd cheered mightily when the town darlings, the Andrews football team, rounded the corner on top of a fire truck.
The triumphant team energized the crowd and set the tone for a festive night. The parade, boasting more than 50 floats and participants, entertained Andrews as it ambled through downtown, with shouts of “Merry Christmas” echoing between the parade marchers and the crowd.
Ryan Greene came out to watch his nephew, Andrews senior football player Cole Anderson.
“I know all those boys,” he said. “I came to cheer them on.”
Alex Haughton, the “Voice of Valleytown,” served as master of ceremonies, belting out Christmas classics from his repurposed S’cool Bus until the parade started, when he announced each float to the receptive crowd.
What the spirited crowd lacked in numbers, they made up for in enthusiasm. Children held up bags as float riders tossed candy into the streets and couples held hands, pointing to one or two of the spectacular floats. Among them, the Seventh-day Adventist Church shone with celestial light as their brilliantly lit float sparkled with angels, their wings blurry with twinkle lights.
Barb Lee, a graduate of Andrews High School, filmed the parade as part of a documentary she is producing about the town and their triumphant football team. But most of the crowd had simpler ambitions.
Quincy Hobson, 3, “came to see Santa Claus and get some candy.” He wasn’t disappointed.
The parade, hosted by the Town of Andrews, fulfilled its promise to fill the cozy town with bright lights and Christmas cheer. You can view an entire parade video on the Cherokee Scout’s Facebook page.