Christmas parade kicks off holiday festivities in Wheaton
A Christmas tree was set aglow and Santa made his first of many visits to Wheaton Friday during the annual Wheaton Christmas Parade.
Mayor Michael Gresk flipped the switch for the lights on the tree at Front and Main streets to kick off the festivities.
The parade included nearly 50 units that marched down Wheaton Avenue and Front Street. Costumed characters entertained children along the route and several musical groups played holiday songs.
In addition, free carriage rides were offered through the downtown by Jim and Becky's Horse and Carriage Service and Union Pacific gave children free rides on a miniature kiddie train.
"Coming to the parade in Wheaton is a great family tradition for us, and we have been doing it for years," said Michele Donahue of Batavia. "We have been coming here for about five years with the little ones, and every year it gets better and better."
Families are welcome to visit Santa at the Santa House in Martin Memorial Plaza from noon to 3 p.m. every Saturday through Dec. 24.