On a brisk Monday evening, the community of Sioux City, Iowa, came together to inaugurate the holiday season with the vibrant IBEW Holiday Lighted Parade. This year, the parade saw an impressive turnout, featuring over 80 entries, marking it as the largest parade in the event’s history. The festive procession started at the intersection of 4th and Iowa Street and concluded at 4th and Nebraska Street. Families, excited children, and festive spirits filled the streets, eagerly awaiting the arrival of illuminated floats and a chance to collect candy, embodying the joy and excitement of the season.
Craig Levine, one of the parade sponsors, highlighted the significance of the event to the community, stating, “I like the part where you are giving back to the community.” His enthusiasm was echoed by many participants who have been involved for years, with Levine sharing that this was his tenth year. The holiday parade serves not only as a celebration but also as an opportunity for community bonding, showcasing local culture and spirit. The event fosters a sense of togetherness, reminding both participants and spectators of the joy that this time of year brings.
This year’s parade also featured a special addition, a supersized gingerbread house created by sponsor Rick Palthe. He mentioned the importance of making this float a visually engaging centerpiece: “We upsized the gingerbread house for everyone to see. It would look silly with a normal-sized one on there, so we brought it bigger and brought it to life.” This delightful creation was meant to enchant the audience, adding a whimsical touch to the parade and emphasizing the festive atmosphere that enveloped the event. The creative entries from various participating organizations further showcased the talent and imagination of the local community.
As the parade continued, it offered a magical display of beautifully decorated floats, musical performances, and various community groups. Many floats were adorned with themed lights and decorations, illuminating the cold evening and captivating the many onlookers. The sense of excitement and cheer was palpable, as families gathered together, bonding over the seasonal spirit. Children were especially mesmerized by the sights, eagerly anticipating the arrival of Santa Claus, who was making a special appearance to celebrate the occasion.
The highlight of the evening came when Santa Claus made his grand entrance, much to the delight of the audience. The parade concluded with Santa lighting up the holiday tree in front of the Sioux City Public Museum, a heartwarming tradition that signifies the official start of the holiday season. The tree lighting ceremony brought together the community in a moment of collective joy, symbolizing hope and celebration as families looked ahead to the festivities that the season brings.
The IBEW Holiday Lighted Parade is more than just a festive display; it represents a cherished tradition that brings the Sioux City community together year after year. With its growing participation and the continued support from local sponsors, the parade serves as a beloved reminder of the joy of giving back and celebrating together. As the parade concluded, it left behind a lasting impression on attendees, reinforcing the sense of community and the spirit of the holiday season that will resonate throughout the city until the new year.
