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Festive floats made their way down Mills Street on Saturday afternoon. (Photo by Mark Levin)

Festive floats made their way down Mills Street on Saturday afternoon. (Photo by Mark Levin)

Paradegoers received candy and treats at the event (Photo by Mark Levin)

Santa and Mrs. Claus made an appearance. (Photo by Mark Levin)

Festive floats made their way down Mills Street on Saturday afternoon. (Photo by Mark Levin)

The Polk County Marching Band was featured at the Columbus Christmas Parade. (Photo by Mark Levin)

The Polk County Honor Guard continues their tradition of leading the Columbus Christmas Parade. (Photo by Mark Levin)

Santa and Mrs. Claus made an appearance. (Photo by Mark Levin)

Residents and visitors enjoyed the Columbus Christmas Parade (Photo by Storme Smith)

Residents and visitors enjoyed the Columbus Christmas Parade (Photo by Storme Smith)

Residents and visitors enjoyed the Columbus Christmas Parade (Photo by Storme Smith)

Santa and Mrs. Claus made an appearance. (Photo by Storme Smith)

COLUMBUS—On Saturday afternoon, the streets of Columbus transformed into a festive wonderland as residents gathered to enjoy the much-anticipated Christmas Parade, partake in Christmas at the Park, and witness the enchanting Lighting of the Community Christmas Tree.

The excitement kicked off at 4:30 p.m. with the Christmas Parade, led by the Columbus Fire Department. Several local businesses and churches participated, along with the Polk County High School Band and the parade’s stars, Santa and Mrs.Claus. Families filled the sidewalks and parking spaces, eager to experience the sights and sounds of the holiday season. 

Following the parade, children and families gathered for a Storytime session hosted by the Polk County Library to ignite the holiday spirit in young hearts. Little ones had the opportunity to send letters to Santa, with a reminder to include a return address for a special reply from the North Pole. Discover Columbus served popcorn and hot chocolate. 

As the clock struck 5:30 p.m., the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as Santa and Mrs. Claus appeared. The evening culminated in the Lighting of the Community Christmas Tree, a tradition that officially marked the beginning of the holiday season in Columbus. 

Residents and visitors enjoyed an evening filled with joy and laughter, making it a perfect occasion to kick off the festivities of this joyful time of year.

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