The Mathews Christmas Parade, “Fishing You a Merry Christmas,” was a resounding success this year, with 50 colorful, creative entries and wonderful turnout.

“Overall the atmosphere was positive and joyful, and the community was just happy to be united and celebrating what this little town can be when we all come together,” said parade director Emily Allen, executive director of the Mathews Visitor and Information Center, which organized the parade.

Allen expressed appreciation to “all the fish who came out, participated, and volunteered,” including parade judges Kelsey Desmond, Lynn Abrams, and Michael LeSage; emcee Phil Sanderson; sound and music coordinator David Shuber; cone and map coordinators Frances and Tim Hudgins, and Smith’s Septic.

Members of the board of directors of MCVIC volunteered all day, said Allen, while VDOT and the Mathews County Sheriff’s Office “helped make it all possible.” Finally, local pilots participated in “our first ever flyover show,” she said.
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