Newburyport Today was thrilled to be invited by WNBP to be on the air with them in Market Square for the tree lighting and Santa Parade. What a fantastic Newburyport Event! It was really wonderful to have the weather cooperate, the crowds certainly seemed appreciative!
As usual, Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived by boat at the waterfront accompanied by The Coast Guard and escorted up State Street with great fanfare to the delight of the hundreds of children and parents.
Santa Claus was proceeded by the arrival of Frosty The Snowman, Elmo, Sponge Bob, and a even a dancing Gingerbread Man. Elmo made his way through the crowd, giving high fives and hugs to the kids who were patiently waiting in Market Square for the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Next into the square was the marching band from Triton High School, followed by The Newburyport High School Marching Band. The bands preformed in unison and it was a real treat to hear them both together. Santa and Mrs. Claus were welcomed up on stage while the bands played “Joy to the Word”, “Hark the Herold Angels Sing”, “Deck the Halls”, and “Jingle Bells”.
The crowds extended beyond Market Square with onlookers peering out from windows that overlooked the scene. When the bands were done, Newburyport Chamber President Ann Ormond lead the crowd in a round of “Rudolf the Red Nosed reindeer” which we were told was “Santa’s favorite”.
The Mayor presented Santa with a key to the city and assured the crowd that he would use it to deliver gifts to all the children of Newburyport. Finally with much fanfare the tree was illuminated and the Holiday Season was officially welcomed to downtown.
Thanks to the Newburyport Rotary, The Newburyport Chamber, and WNBP for helping to make it such a memorable day.
