A persistent cold drizzle couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm of Gorham residents who came out to view the town’s Annual Light Parade and Tree Lighting on Sunday, Nov. 30.

 

Armed with umbrellas, rain boots, and holiday spirit, attendees along the parade route cheered the participating vehicles and floats, which were decked out in festive lights and featured season-appropriate inflatables and costumed passengers. Launching from J.P. Noonan Transportation at 4:30 p.m., the procession advanced down Main Street to South Street, dropping off Santa and Mrs. Claus in front of Baxter Memorial Library before continuing down Morrill Avenue and Ball Park Road to the high school parking lot.

The Clauses were met by the Gorham High School boys ice hockey team, who had the honor of escorting the couple to the evergreen in front of the Gorham Municipal Center entrance. After briefly conveying happy holiday wishes to the town, Santa, accompanied by Mrs. Claus, led the crowd in a countdown to the magical lighting of the tree, which will remain illuminated throughout the holiday season. Despite the soggy weather, the gracious couple remained by the tree after the lighting for photos with attendees.

According to Community Recreation & Events Manager Zachary Lambert, more than 20 vehicles participated in this year’s parade. Gorham’s Fire Department, Public Works, and Parks & Rec Department joined in the fun, as well as Westbrook Public Services, O’Donal’s Nursery, Dirt Direct, Sampson Lawn Care, Green Growth Lawn Care, New Year Gorham, Southern Maine Heat Pumps and a number of individual residents that decorated their own personal vehicles.

The tree lighting was the culmination of an afternoon of holiday festivities at the Municipal Center. Though activities had to be moved inside this year due to the poor weather forecast, there was still plenty to enjoy, including reindeer games, a photo booth, hot chocolate, music, and several food trucks in the parking lot. “We really appreciate everyone in the community coming out to support the event and kicking off the holiday season with us,” Mr. Lambert said.
Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Gorham Recreation Department, which organized the day’s events, and the assistance of the Gorham Police Department, holiday joy was successfully delivered to Gorham.