Dateline: Dec. 18, 2023

Santa Parade

 VIDEO: Santa Parade passing Town Hall

On Saturday December 16th, with an escort of two Allenstown police cruisers leading Santa's sleigh and four Fire Dept. vehicles, the Santa Parade toured the entire downtown region from Bear View Crossing down to 25 Canal Street and arrived at Town Hall for the Christmas Lighting Contest's Awards Ceremony.

This event started at the Allenstown Police Station at 1:00 p.m. and traveled with sirens whining, horns blaring, and lights flashing while Santa and his elves handed out candy to children waiting along the route. Ron Adinolfo (EDC member and Fire Dept. EMT) was riding shotgun in the lead cruiser and giving turn by turn directions. In the sleigh were Michael Landers (Santa), Nancy Beaulieu (elf), and Dustin Shelly (elf), with Mike Lanaise as sleigh driver. Santa's entourage pulled in next to Town Hall shortly after 2:30 p.m.

Of special note was the stop they made at Hillsbrook Village on Chester Turnpike to briefly visit its residents who were thrilled to meet Santa and his elves.

Santa and elves - photos courtesy of Hillsbrook Village

At Hillsbrook Village - Preceding photos courtesy of Ron Adinolfo

Christmas Lighting Awards Ceremony

At Town Hall, an enthusiastic crowd of about 40-50 residents came for the Christmas Light festivities on Dec. 16th. The weather was remarkably mild in the upper 40s.

A burn barrel was set up for a little warmth (thanks to our friends at the Highway Dept.). The ARD Student Council set up tables by the Gazebo and sold cookies, brownies, and hot chocolate. People partook of the refreshments while waiting for the Santa Parade to arrive.

We had a great time together, mingling and enjoying the mild afternoon weather. After arriving at Town Hall and posing for group photos, Santa and the elves, police officers, and firefighters mingled with the attendees.

The following photos are courtesy of Michael Frascinella

Parade vehicles parked along Library St.

Crew for the Santa Parade

Crew for the Santa Parade

ARD Student Council sold hot chocolate and pastries

About 40- 50 people attended the event

EDC leaders Lisa Lemire and Michael Frascinella announced and handed out the awards and trophies. The winners can be found on the town web site.

 Christmas Lighting Contest winners

The trophies - photo courtesy of Lisa Lemire

After that they led the audience in singing several Christmas carols. At the end of the event, they wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

What You Can Do

Let's plan on doing this again next year!