City of Wilmington’s holiday parade kicks off the holiday mood

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY)– The roads were closed on Front Street, as the twenty-second City of Wilmington’s Holiday Parade kicked off on Sunday night.

For Matthew More, a volunteer with Calvary Christian School said this was the first time he got to be a part of the parade.

“This is a lot of hours of hard work to put a float together. We really poured that love into it and we’re super excited,” said More.

The parade saw participants ranging from a monster truck, to dance team, to floats. The floats also varied, from a hot air ballon design to a decorated boat. Seeing lights the holiday lights and getting into the holiday spirits is special for Hannah Dutton, as one her family members came to see the parade with her.

“This is my little sister Daphne, I dragged her out of the house today to get into the Christmas spirit today, and we are really enjoying it,” said Dutton.

The holiday spirit could be felt in the crowd as hundreds watched the parade as well. Many were in the holiday mood like Patrick Hurst, who watched while dressed as Buddy the Elf.

“Every year I come down with my family. My mom and my grandma made this Elf outfit for me. It gets a big wear once a year this season.”

And for More, it’s even more special, spreading that holiday spirit with his kids.

“We are going to fill it up with the kids, and we are going to give out candy. It’s going to be a wonderful time,” said More.