Families filled the streets downtown Saturday afternoon to celebrate the holidays with the 74th annual Jefferson City Jaycees Christmas parade.
Although there was no snow in sight, the day was windy and frigid, and spectators huddled underneath layers of parkas, blankets and scarves to stay warm. Young children, cheeks flushed red from the cold, excitedly toted bowls and plastic bags that would soon be filled with pencils, candy and stickers from parade participants.
The theme of this year's parade was "I'll be home for Christmas." Some groups opted to incorporate this message through small patriotic touches: American flags adorning a Christmas tree, a snowman holding a flag. Others, like Future Farmers of America, had a more literal interpretation of the theme; the organization's float featured a soldier standing outside a closed door as the rest of his family waited inside for his return.
Inspired Salon & Spa had a unique and poignant take: a soldier wrapped in a sleeping bag, spending Christmas alone in an encampment. On the side of the float, in large letters, were the words "If only in my dreams."
Mayor Eric Struemph also made an appearance, along with first dog Krackers, who wore a red Santa hat to mark the occasion.
The parade's highlight, of course, was the appearance of Santa and Mrs. Claus, who were seated in a large red sleigh brimming with presents and pulled by a fleet of reindeer.
For regular parade attendees, the event has held the same magic year after year.
April and Mike McNail stood on the High Street sidewalk for half an hour with their sons Grifin, 6, and Gaige, 5. Although she wasn't a big fan of the cold, April said she and her family had come out to support her daughter, who was on the Future Farmers of America float.
"We go every single year," April said.
"It's been almost 20 years," Mike added. "It's my 18th year here."
Sisters Molly, Renee and Lilly Berkey attend the parade each December with their family. As night descended and the lights of the floats faded into the distance, the three young girls walked up and down the street, gathering some of the many pieces of unclaimed candy covering the parade route.
Molly said the best part of the parade was seeing Santa in his sleigh at the end. Renee wasn't sure what her favorite part was.
"Just say the candy," her sister suggested.
But Renee wanted time to think about it. After mulling over the question for a few seconds, her face suddenly lit up.
"I know!" she said, smiling. "When Santa and Mrs. Claus came out."