Vinton celebrates the season with “A Little Bit Country” parade
VINTON—The streets of Vinton were packed with crowds celebrating the beginning of the holiday season at Vinton’s annual Christmas parade on Thursday night. Many parade-goers also seemed to take to heart the BuyVinton campaign and kept downtown businesses and restaurants busy throughout the evening. The festivities kicked off with the annual Vinton Breakfast Lions Club spaghetti dinner at the VFW, followed by the Town Christmas tree lighting at the Municipal Building. The excitement continued with an impressive parade boasting 90 entries, and concluded with an open house at the Vinton War Memorial at the end of the parade route.
Members of the Vinton Breakfast Lions Club serve their annual spaghetti dinner at the VFW in downtown Vinton. Their tradition began in the 1980's and continues each year at the Vinton Christmas parade.
The Parrot Heads of the Blue Ridge put some finishing touches on their "Cheeseburger in Paradise" float before the parade.
The William Byrd High School Band performed at Vinton's annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony prior the the parade.
The Country Boys Band performed at the Charity Cottage Thrift Store in downtown Vinton at a VIP reception for supporters of the Advancement Foundation charities.
Annette Patterson, founder and president of the Advancement Foundation charities, and Becky Freemal, Fox 21/27 news anchor and Advancement Foundation board member enjoy the VIP reception before the parade. Freemal was one of the judges for the Vinton Christmas parade.
The Mighty Titan Marching Band from Hidden Valley High School entertained the crowd at the Vinton parade.
Members of the Hidden Valley High School Band impressed the crowd at the Vinton parade.
The Star City Riders sponsored a float featuring the Grinch, which placed in the competition.
Jessica Deadrick talks with Santa at the Vinton War Memorial open house after the parade. Elf Jordan Bennett assists.
After the parade, party-goers at the Vinton War Memorial made holiday cards for veterans at the VA Hospital and for our troops.
