The Mechanicsville Local | News - Cold winds didn’t deter village parade

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Cold winds didn’t deter village parade
Published: December 11, 2008

Melody Kinser

What cold?

Old Man Winter may have tried to put a chill on Sunday’s annual Mechanicsville Christmas Parade, but, based on the turnout, it didn’t work.

With temperatures in the low 40s as parade participants prepared to kick off at 3 p.m., spectators lined the streets, most bundled in quilts, blankets and afghans. Winter coats, hooded sweatshirts, ball caps, toboggans and gloves were the attire of the day.

Others, however, were situated so that they could view the 10th annual event from the comfort — and warmth — of their vehicles.

The Mechanicsville Rotary/Ruritan Christmas Parade has become a tradition and one in which residents eagerly await the official start of the holiday season in their community.

This year’s theme was “Ol’ Time Christmas Parade.”

A joint effort of the Mechanicsville Rotary Club and the Mechanicsville Ruritans, the parade also is a benefactor to the Hanover Christmas Mother project. All proceeds from refreshments sales boost the program, which provides help to those in need, especially children.

Sales were brisk, with hot chocolate and coffee providing welcome warmth.

By 1:30 p.m., Mechanicsville Turnpike and adjacent streets were filling up with parade-goers. Getting positioned for the best view was the goal. Once settled, the bundling began to battle the cold.

Santa Claus’ impending arrival, as well as the bands, floats, fire trucks, police officers, beauty queens, etc., had children – some wearing Santa caps – excitedly waiting.

Under blue skies, leaves were rustling as the wind stirred. Hanover County Sheriff’s Office deputies appeared unfazed by the cold, staying busy directing traffic.

Helmeted deputies also rode bicycles through the crowd to keep the afternoon event safe and secure.

David Fuller was seen traveling about in a golf cart checking on the status before the 3 p.m. start time. He showed his holiday spirit by wearing a big red hat, which had a resemblance to the Mad Hatter in “Alice in Wonderland.”

In the distance, the sounds of drums echoed through the village.

Young and old alike delighted in the antics of Ronald McDonald and the Chick-fil-A cows. Also entertaining the spectators were dance performances by members of The Dance Project and cheers from the Blue Star Cowboy cheerleaders.

As dusk fell on Mechanicsville, temperatures started to dip into the 30s.

Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived by fire truck at the end of the parade and promptly stopped at the community Christmas tree to take part in the lighting ceremony.