Under a beautiful sun-filled sky, Santa and his crew arrived in Methuen greeted by thousands of parade-goers.
Kicking off the Santa Parade was this year’s Grand Marshal Sebastian “Busty” DiNoto. A United States Army sergeant during the Korean War, Busty has a long-standing tradition of volunteering to drive the Santa Parade’s Grand Marshal. He was unable to drive this year, but Mayor DJ Beauregard wanted to honor his dedication to the city, so this loyal driver became parade royalty! DiNoto was joined by two of his granddaughters, Ava DiNoto from California and Stella Pachis from Chicago, who traveled here for his big day. Mickey Hamilton had the honor of driving DiNoto through the parade route.
Colorful floats from the Tenney, CGS, Marsh, Timony and St. Monica schools carried teachers and their students dressed in Christmas attire while gleefully cheering “Happy Holidays!”
Dance Images and Studio of Dance Arts each performed dances and gymnastic routines while holiday music played from their floats, garnishing cheers and applause from the crowds. Methuen Karate and Chang’s Tae Kwon Do chanted and executed some of their moves.
Methuen youth athletics were of no shortage in the parade and included Methuen Youth hockey, soccer, field hockey and lacrosse. Happy players and coaches tossed candy to children watching the parade.
The Methuen High School Marching Band was one of several along the route playing holiday music, even inspiring some parade-goers to sing along.
City Council Chairman Ron Marsan, Councilors-elect John Drew and Ryan DiZoglio along with state leaders including Auditor Diana DiZoglio, Sen. Pavel Payano and Rep. Ryan Hamilton walked the route with Mayor Beauregard greeting people and passing out candy.
Methuen Recreation Director Steve Angelo, who organized the parade with plenty of help from fellow city staffers, said, “The Santa Parade is one of my favorite traditions in Methuen. Remembering as a child attending with my family and to now be a part of this great event and seeing thousands of people come out to celebrate the holiday season as a community is amazing!”
Maggie, 5, and her mom Jennifer Ravgiala won a raffle at last year’s Methuen Festival of Trees to ride with Santa and the Methuen Fire Department and toss candy to parade-goers. Maggie was excited, but mom Jennifer said she is MORE excited! ML photos by Nancy Reardon
“Goldie” the golden retriever was excited to watch the parade with her family, the Quinns, as well as the Griggs and the DiFonzos. They even got a visit from Mayor Beauregard!
Methuen Fire Department Local 1691 had their famous Radio Flyer wagon filled with children and their parents waving to the large crowds as they passed by.
The Methuen Youth Hockey Association was one of the largest sports groups marching in the parade with over 50 players and their coaches.
Madison Troy, 5, and big sister Ella, 7, were excited to drop their Christmas wish lists into Santa’s mailbox, located at the Central Fire Station. Dad Chris is a Methuen firefighter. The Santa mailbox will be moved to City Hall after Thanksgiving and will remain there until right before Christmas.
