BEDFORD – The 2021 Christmas Around the Square and the Christmas Parade came roaring back after taking a year off due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Open Air Christmas Market got the festivities started at 2:00 p.m. with families stopping by each of the vendors on location.
Around the corner at the Harp Commons included a live reindeer exhibit for all to see.
Children where also offered the chance to ride the ever popular barrel train. The barrel train was pulled around City Hall during the open air market.
Santa Claus then arrived at 3:00 p.m. for families to visit and make a few memeories as they posed with him. The warm weather was welcomed while they anxiously waited in line that stretched the length of Harp Commons.
Santa was able to visit with all the good little girls and boys to hear their Christmas wishes before heading back to the North Pole to get the presents and stockings ready.
As shopping began to slow down, and families started becoming anxious for the parade, Mayor Sam Craig introduced the Parade Grand Marshal, Clarence Brown, and dedicated December 4th, 2021 as Clarence Brown Day.
Brown then took the time to talk with those in attendance on the honor and privilege it was to serve as the Grand Marshal, giving all praise to God. He then lead the crowd in a rendition of “This Little Light of Mine” before moving on to the tree lighting ceremony.
Once the tree was lit, everyone made their way to their seats to prepare for the Christmas Parade.
All of the parade entries were judged prior to the beginning of the parade, in multiple different categories before making their way to the parade route.
The following parade entries were awarded an “Award of Excellance” plaque in their category :
- Antique Car: Bob Wilson
- Antique Truck: Max’s LLC
- Church: Life Missions Ministries
- Equestrian: Painting A Sunny New Legacy
- Fire Truck: Huron Volunteer Fire Department
- Commercial: Innovative Landscaping
- Non-Commercial: Day for Lawrence County Sheriff
- Musical Group: Bedford North Lawrence Marching Band
- Tractor: Marko and Papaw
- Vehicle: Christmas Challenger
The below received a “Most Festive” award in their category.
- Commercial Most Festive: Midwest Lakes Marine
- Non-Commercial Award of Excellence: NLCS Center HOSA
One particular entry, #29 The Bedford Jeepers, was a crowd pleaser for sure. This entry included multiple community jeeps that were displayed their Christmas spirit with Christmas decorations and lights galore. The judges were just impressed as the onlookers. The Bedford Jeepers took in the “Best Overall Parade Entry” award.
The weather was slightly chilly, but everyone was able to enjoy the festive parade and enjoy each others company.
Members of the Huron Volunteer Fire Department were able to make their way and celebrate in the holiday, and bask in winning the Fire Truck Award of Excellence.
Indiana State Police Sergeant Greg Day was able to make it out for the parade with his float for Greg Day for Sheriff dressed as Woody from Toy Story.
The parade was a huge success in bringing the community together and to celebrate the Holiday Season.
