Little Town, Big Turnout
Dec 08, 2021 12:00AM ● By Story by Zachary Torres
Gridley got a tiny taste of winter at the Winter Wonderland Parade of Lights Festival, as one of Gridley's Electric Department trucks came down the parade route emitting a soft cloud of snow that delighted parade goers of all ages! Photo by Noah Ross
GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) - There wasn’t much Winter at Wednesday night’s Winter Wonderland Festival and Light Parade, but there was more than enough wonder and festivities. The streets were decorated in jubilee glee, ornaments hung, and the scene was set for another amazing night.
The vendors arrived early, setting up their tents and tables, unpacking their wares. A little something for everyone from food, to treats, trinkets, and jewelry. In the background the WSD band ran their sound checks for the night performance.
When the magic hour rang, and the sun began its last dance with the horizon, the real spirit of the Holiday Season could be seen. Streets lit from end to end with lights and trees. The crowd filled in slowly at first, then faster and faster as people rushed home from work.
The streets were packed three deep from the street to sidewalk by the time reserve officer Jim Roberts made his last ride through the parade. The Honor Guard not far behind, their flags waving in the gentle wind. With song they sent us on.
There were lights and songs. The meek children among the floats waved shy greetings as they took in the massive crowd around them. Snow reigned down from the Gridley Museum and children danced as they made their way down the parade route.
The judges smiled as each entry crossed their vision. Their choice would not be easy. After it all the scores were tallied, and the results were clear: 1st Place"'Joey Waterbury Electric; 2nd Place"'Apples to Zebras; 3rd Place"'Manzanita 4H
The Gridley Chamber of Commerce would like to thank all those that came out for a great night and those that helped to put on such a great event.
Special appreciation to the City of Gridley, Gridley Public Works, Gridley Electric Dept., Gridley Police Dept., CalFire, Lions Club, Rotary and to the volunteers that helped make this a very Wonderful Winterfest.
Thank you, to our Sponsors: Joey Waterbury Electric, Nachos Electric, Casa Lupe Market, Kids Castle, Kari Wheeler Realty, Railhouse Pub and Grill, Butte Auto Parts, and Orchard Hospital.
