PHOTO GALLERY: Wilmette Kicks of Holiday Season with Parade

A motorcycle riding Santa, Christmas trees, a stilt-walker and a full marching band were just part of the entertainment proceeding through the streets of Wilmette Nov. 19 during the Willmette Chamber of Commerce’s annual holiday parade.

Locals of all ages packed the streets on the warm, but windy morning as the procession kicked off at the intersection of Fourth Street and Linden Avenue, proceeding to Village Center.  Many groups offered entertainment along the route, including Shriners driving mini-cars, employees of the Wilmette Park District dressed in costumes representing different programs and Loyola Academy’s marching band playing holiday tunes.

Some particularly prepared parade watchers set up chairs and blankets along the route and others brought bags to fill with candy thrown by many of the marchers. Lisa McGowan of Winnetka came with her husband and three daughters and said they got a huge candy haul by positioning themselves near the start of the procession, when the many marching Girl Scout and Brownie troops were still figuring out how much sweets they should be throwing. She said she hadn’t been to the parade recently, but that this year’s warm weather drew her out again.

“We used to come when the kids were so tiny and we had great memories,” she said. “I thought it was great. I loved the variety.”

Mary Boyd of Wilmette said she comes every year.

“It’s such a nice local highlight,” she said. “It’s a great chance to connect with neighbors.”

Wilmette residents Molly and Keith Veneziano spent the morning getting pictures taken with their three kids at down the street, then enjoyed their annual tradition of watching the parade.

“It’s kind of the kick-off to the holiday,” Keith said.