Seemingly the entire City of Perry and even more were out on a mild Friday night to watch the annual Lighted Christmas Parade.

The parade, which included Raccoon Valley Radio’s Big Red Radio and many other entries, started at 7 p.m. and did a loop along 3rd and 2nd streets between Otley and Pattee streets. The yearly tradition has been a favorite of La Poste co-owner Jenny Eklund, and she said this year’s event didn’t disappoint. “You know, the Lighted Parade has always been something that was a positive for Perry for me. And this year, I thought it was fantastic, I really did.”

Following the parade, Eklund hosted the first annual Poste Holiday Lighted Parade Party at La Poste, and it was filled beyond capacity for the duration of the event. The revelers were entertained by musical performances, treated to free food and drinks, and given the opportunity to meet Santa Claus. Eklund was near speechless at the show of support, and is already looking ahead to the second annual event. “I’m very happy, I feel very blessed. Shocked at all the people, both on our main gallery and in our Cellar. The compliments, the words that people are saying to me are just melting my heart here! People are asking me how can I top this next year? I do have some ideas, I do know how to top it, and I’m looking forward to next year already!”