SCRANTON — In a few minutes, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus would be needed on their carriage to close out Saturday’s parade through downtown Scranton.
But right now, the couple from the North Pole had some time, and there were children to greet. One little girl wanted Santa to know her name is on the Nice List displayed in the window of the old pressroom at the Scranton Times Building about a block away.
Many others, with wonder in their eyes, merely wanted a hug. St. Nick had plenty to spare.
He commended the city’s children for how well they’ve behaved this past year.
“Last year, they were very good,” he said. “But this year, they were even better. There’s still a few that I have my eye on, but they have 32 days.”
Throngs of people crowded Scranton on Saturday and welcomed the beginning of the holiday season during the 27th annual Santa Parade.
High school marching bands, floats and holiday characters like Heat Miser and Snow Miser marched through the city.
“Keep it up! Keep it up! Keep that Christmas spirit up,” chanted the cheerleaders from Valley View High School.
Rock 107’s morning host, Prospector, served as grand marshal of the parade. Prospector, who is an employee of Times-Shamrock Communications, has been part of the parade since its inaugural year in 1993. He relished the opportunity to lead it.
“You’re bringing Santa to NEPA,” Prospector said. “Who’s not excited about that?”
All seemed in the holiday spirit. Even the Grinch handed out candy to grateful children.
When asked what prompted such a change of heart for the notable Christmas grump, the woman inside the costume just smiled and walked away.
There was one thing on the mind of most of the little children who attended Saturday’s parade: The Man in Red himself — Santa Claus.
Terrell Taylor, 9, of Olyphant, is a big fan of Santa. He said he got a chance to wave at Santa last year at a parade in Wilkes-Barre. He does not yet know what he wants for Christmas, but given the opportunity, he knows what he would like to say to Santa.
“Thanks!” Terrell said. “Thank you, Santa!”
Joey Kelly, 5, of Covington Twp., kept his eyes peeled. Last year, he said, Santa Claus brought him a motorcycle. This year, he’s hoping for a Pokemon video game.
Not everyone, though, had their mind on presents. Asked about the meaning of the day, 10-year-old Adam Zaleski said, “it’s not Santa Claus, it’s family.”
If Santa knows if you’ve been bad or good, as the song suggests, then Adam might not have much to worry about.
Courtney Pronti, 35, of Scranton, said she had to agree with the sentiment. Her family makes it a point to attend the Santa Parade every year. It’s a tradition.
“I agree, it’s about getting the family together,” she said.
Contact the writer:
jkohut@timesshamrock.com;
570-348-9144;
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