On December 6th, hundreds of people lined Main Street for the Seal Beach Christmas Parade. The event has become a festive tradition for the small town, and people from Huntington Beach, Long Beach, Newport and beyond come to witness almost 3,000 participants in the parade to celebrate the holiday season.
This year’s theme was “A Superhero Christmas.” The event featured fictional superheroes and real-life heroes, such as first responders and members of the armed forces.
The parade started at 7 p.m., but most families packed the sidewalks hours in advance, and it was already bustling by 6 p.m. Once the ribbon was cut, the parade began with the US Naval Sea Cadet Corps, the Los Alamitos High School Marching Band, the Orange County Fire Authority Engine 44, and the Grand Marshal, Ray Longoria.
The parade has long been a tradition for local families, where everyone, young or old, can come together to celebrate the holiday season. “I enjoy[ed] seeing the various ages of people who are spectators,” said Robert Elliott, a local Seal Beach firefighter and parade participant with the OCFA.“[From] grandparents to grandchildren…it draws a really fun crowd.”
One of the most exciting acts in the beginning was a musical performance by Fresh Cut Creative, a promotion agency based in Seal Beach. This performance was dedicated to all of the parade volunteers, who danced around with light sticks to the catchy song.
Many local schools participated in the parade, including many HBHS students who are members of the Academy for the Performing Arts (APA). Students from all departments were involved, singing a rendition of “Christmas Wrappings” by The Waitresses.
“I felt a rush of energy when I was walking down there, it was a new experience for me,” said HBHS senior Harry Hartin, who proudly carried the APA banner down Main Street alongside Serenity Britton, a sophomore in Acting.
After several marching bands, superheroes, dance teams, and Girl Scout troops, Santa Claus himself appeared to conclude the wonderful evening. Instead of a sleigh, though, he traveled down the street on a vintage fire truck decorated with festive lights alongside friends and family.
Ultimately, the Seal Beach Christmas Parade was once again a success and did not leave any disappointments. Don’t worry if you missed it! The parade is annual, and it gets better every year. See you next year, and happy holidays!
