CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Charleston residents lined the streets of downtown Thursday evening for the city’s annual Christmas parade.
City officials, local groups and businesses were part of this year’s event, which for the first time in recent history took place on a weekday.
But for Debbie Starks, who has been watching the Christmas parade with her family for 40 years, the change had little impact.
“We always sit right here on Capitol Street. All the family,” she said. “We make it a family affair.”
Starks used to bring her children to the parade; now a grandmother, she said the event is more special.
“The kids just enjoy it,” she said.
Sofia Wandling, a fifth-grade student at Overbrook Elementary School, said having the parade during the week made it more fun.
“Because we don’t have to go to bed early,” she said laughing.
Wandling watched the parade with her classmate, Ella Tice, who said the excitement for Christmas is building.
“On Christmas morning, you just wake up and there’s presents everywhere,” she said.
City officials said the number of participants doubled from last year.