LAKE OZARK, Mo. -- "Christmas Magic" was abound during the Lake of the Ozarks Christmas Parade Saturday afternoon in downtown Lake Ozark.
Celebrating 30 years, the annual parade was led by the Marine Corps League Honor Guard and this year's grand marshal, Robert Schwartz.
According to an article by Loretta Srch, Lake Area artist and writer, Schwartz also celebrated 30 years as a Lake Area condo owner and frequent visitor. A Benton, Illinois native, Schwartz is a continual marketer for Lake of the Ozarks tourism with his company Bob's Marketing, and he has been honored as Business Person of the Year in the Lake Area. He's also an instrumental founder and co-organizer of the increasingly popular Hot Summer Nights annual event series and has held numerous volunteer roles in charitable and tourism committees.
A variety of businesses, civic organizations, Boy Scout troops and dignitaries marched or rode in the parade, which traveled down Bagnell Dam Strip in Lake Ozark. Santa and his crew of elves traveled in a float complete with eight reindeer built and provided by Glencove Marine. The jolly St. Nick ended the parade with a local fire truck escort.
After the parade, children were able to visit with Santa at the White House on the Strip. Christmas stockings for the children, hot chocolate and cookies were be served. In addition, food and toy drives were held to benefit those in need in the Lake Area.