The traditional Hammond Holiday Parade, an annual highlight, did not disappoint for the 2017 season.
Hundreds of residents and visitors lined the parade route that began at Gavit High School and concluded at Purdue University Northwest.
“My kids are grown, but we still come to this parade,” said Jenny Unger, a former Hammond resident who attended with her husband, James, and son, Josh. “This is one holiday event we never miss.”
Josh vividly remembers the years his parents brought him to the event while he was growing up.
“It was always so much fun,” he said. “The floats, Santa, and, of course, the candy.”
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That hasn’t changed. Organizations, individuals and businesses kept children busy as they scampered for goodies.
“I brought a really big bag,” said Teri Prentiss, 8, of Hammond. “I hope to get a lot, but I will share with my sister who is sick and couldn’t be here.”
Dawn Platt, of Highland, came to watch her granddaughter’s group from Terrace Park Church and their colorful red, white and blue float.
“This (event) is awesome. It’s important to the kids and the community,” Platt said. “It’s a great way to start off the season.”
The grand marshal for this year’s parade was the cast from Towle Theater’s “A Fabulous ’50s Christmas,” a show offered at the downtown venue.
“There’s a lot of uniqueness to this holiday parade. In my opinion it’s better than any other in the area,” Kelli Oakes, of Hammond, said as she took a selfie with her son Kendall, 4.
In addition to the dozens of colorful floats, visitors enjoyed musical entertainment from Hammond’s middle and high school marching bands, and live horses dancing to the sounds of “Feliz Navidad.”
When the parade concluded at Purdue University Northwest, visitors were invited to join Santa on his sleigh for photos.
“Hammond does a great job with this parade every year,” said Linda Miller, of Schererville, a former Hammond resident. “I always came each year with my sisters and brothers, and now I’m my bringing my grandkids. It’s become a tradition for our family. We’re making sweet memories.”
Sue Ellen Ross is the freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.