A bright city spirit

COLUMBUS — When the city had their inaugural Lighted Christmas Parade last year, the city fully intended that to be the only Christmas parade in its history. However, after the Chamber of Commerce advocated for a return, the city agreed to allow the second iteration of the Lighted Christmas Parade in Columbus on Nov. 28.

Thirty-seven float entries participated in the parade as they traveled through the downtown areas of Columbus to the parade’s endpoint at the Colorado County Courthouse. Winners for the top entries were selected with Jeff and Tammy Campbell winning the best car/truck entry, St. Anthony Catholic School won best overall float and American Ag finished with the best lighted entry.

Following the parade, hot cocoa and cookies were served by Chef Raoul in the Courthouse courtyard prior to the lighting of the city Christmas tree. The crowd surrounded the area as the decorated courtyard lit up with its centerpiece after a countdown.

The Chamber hopes to turn the parade into a yearly event for the holiday season.