On Saturday, November 26, the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Winter Nights & Magical Lights Parade in the square. The festivities began at 5 p.m., with a Christmas Window Reveal, which was judged by the Carroll County Business Women, followed by a “light up the square” at 5:30. Lineup for the parade began at 4:30, with pick-up trucks and smaller vehicles on 3rd Street and larger vehicles at the fairgrounds. The parade started at 6. Various community organizations and businesses participated, with Santa and Mrs. Claus featured at the very end. The parade was followed by a Santa Meet & Greet and food trucks.
Many students from CEVSD were in attendance with several participating in the parade. Leah Brown, a junior at the high school, was responsible for an entry that won the Vintage Vehicle (best-decorated car or truck) award. “I was very surprised,” Brown said. “I was not expecting to win…I think the number of lights I had on mine versus the others was what made me stand out.” Also participating in the parade was CMS seventh grader and Carroll County Jr. Fair Princess, Kendall George. “I think [this event] is important because everyone comes to the parade every year, and it’s so much fun to watch the little kids enjoy it!” George said.
Madilynn Baker, a high school senior and attendee said, “I think [the parade] is important because it gives the people in our community something to do…It’s something fun, it doesn’t cost any money; anybody can do it.”