Streets were alive with wonder as thousands turned out for the 31st annual Parade of Lights celebration in Chico this past Saturday evening.
This year’s theme was “Unity in the Community,” and it was evident as Chico residents and onlookers were in a celebratory mood after the parade’s hiatus of several years due to COVID-19.
The city closed access to downtown Chico at 5 p.m., and by sunset, the streets along the parade route were thronged with countless spectators.
Marc Edson, President of the Chico Noon Exchange Club, which sponsored the event, said it takes an entire year and many hands to put the parade together, but it’s well worth the effort.
“I love seeing all these people out here, especially all the kids with their LED light-up stuff and excited for the parade, you know, after these last three years, this just feels so good as a community event,” Edson said.
The parade dates back three decades to the 1990s and has always been a showcase for the community to come together and highlight its growth.
“You know, we complain about some of the problems it has, but Chico’s a great town — I’ve lived year over 50 years — and nights like this is what really makes it worth it,” Edson said.
Edson said 54 entrants participated in the parade.
