There was loads of holiday cheer last Saturday in Alexandria as the town held their annual Christmas Parade. The event featured floats, ATVs and classic vehicles, horse drawn vehicles, and a special meet and greet for some longtime Alexandria residents. Santa himself even made an appearance.
The event was a little different this year, being held at night and allowing the floats and vehicles to be lit with holiday lights. Because of the event being held in the dark, and due Covid-19, participants did not throw candy to onlookers, but sweets were passed out to children during the drawings.
Leading the procession was Alexandria Police Chief Chris Russell, followed by DeKalb County Sheriff Patrick Ray. The DeKalb County High School Fighting Tiger Band marched in the parade and entertained the crowd.
Mike and Kaye Prichard served as Grand Marshals for the event, which also featured units with the DeKalb County Fire Department, the Tennessee Division of Forestry with Smoky the Bear, Smithville-DeKalb Rescue Squad, and DeKalb EMS.
Wilson Bank & Trust won the triple crown this year, winning the best float category in all three local parades, Smithville, Liberty, and Alexandria.
Sondja McLaughlin won first place in the vehicle category with her 1956 Chevrolet Nomad, while Levi Reynolds took first place in the ATV category.
Of course bringing up the rear of the parade, Santa could be seen riding atop of one of Alexandria's fire engines. He waved to the crowd, then greeted some of the kids afterwards.
Also at the parade, the Sons of Confederate Veterans Savage/Goodner Camp had a canopy set up for greeting longtime residents, Mac and Eva Willoughby. Mr. Willoughby had taught as a science teacher at DeKalb County High School for many years. The couple are moving to Murfreesboro to be closer to their daughter and family.
After the parade, the drawings were held for prizes donated by local businesses.