North Beach, MD – The Christmas Season got off to a glowing start in North Beach the first weekend of December. On Friday night, Dec. 2, the annual “Lighting Up the Town” was held on the boardwalk pavilion. The large Christmas tree was officially lit along with the decorative lights throughout the municipality. Saturday at high noon the brightness of the sun contrasted with the chilly air from the Chesapeake Bay, as hundreds lined up to watch the town’s annual parade.
The Pat Carpenter Holiday Parade featured a variety of units, including marching Scouts, church groups, classic cars, local schools, motorcyclists, Red Hat ladies and even a precision team of librarians. Dancers from Abigail Francisco School of Classical Ballet performed as the made their way up Bay Avenue.
Local celebrities—mostly elected officials—waved to the parade watchers and some even threw candy to the kids. A local kid who made a big impact in Annapolis during his career in politics—Maryland Veterans Affairs Secretary George W. Owings III—served as the event announcer.
Finally, there were the trucks from the North Beach Volunteer Fire Department (Company 1). The parade’s conclusion was the arrival of Santa Claus who rode on the back of the Company 1 tower truck. Santa and Mrs. Claus stayed around after the parade to meet the children.
The Christmas spirit remains present in North Beach. According to the town’s Facebook page, The North Beach House and Garden Club’s 17th Annual Holiday Highlights judging will be held Sunday, Dec. 18. Town residents and business owners could win prizes if their outdoor holiday decorations are deemed outstanding by a group of judges. The judging on Dec. 18 will begin at 6 p.m.
Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com
