BRANDON — “With a line of cars that never seemed to end, Brandon’s 2nd Annual Reverse Parade was a rousing success!” said Brandon’s assistant recreation director Colleen Wright, adding that area residents also lit up the town with holiday decorations for the annual lighting contest.
“Park Street residents put on amazing displays of lights and color, while Santa and Mrs. Claus greeted vehicles at the corner of Park and High Street, with holiday music playing,” Wright recalled in describing the scene.
“As cars drove past the displays, they were greeted by RNESU’s lighted bus and the great spirited Diane Delorm, Jo Ann Scarborough and Mike and Steph Lee. Downtown was full of festive characters, lighted vehicles and, of course, Clark Griswold and Cousin Eddie! It was lights, music and fun for all as Brandon celebrated the holiday season.”
In addition to the Reverse Parade, Brandon also held a holiday decorating contest. Wright explained that judges of the contest were “at liberty to select any display that caught their eye as they toured around town, even as some residents called in to have their homes considered for the contest.” Next year, she said, “be sure to let us know if you want to be included.”
Winners of the contest, sponsored by Brandon Rec, Brandon Chamber of Commerce and The Reporter were:
Residential/Currier and Ives Division – 28 Church Street;
Residential/Clark W. Griswold Division – 182 Deer Run Road;
Downtown Commercial – River Pub & Grill;
Out of Downtown Commercial – The Inn On Park Street;
Civic Buildings/Organizations – Brandon Fire Department;
Most Decorated Street – Pearl Street.
Photos were submitted by Michelle Alger, Kyle Hutchins, Tim Brown and Savannah Noble. Many thanks to them and all the volunteers who made these events possible.
