More than 50 entries, many with multiple vehicles (as well as individual walkers, horses and dogs), took part in Saturday’s Mathews Christmas Parade, “Elf on a (Half) Shell.”
Sunny skies and unseasonably warm temperatures prevailed, as people lined the parade route from Thomas Hunter Middle School all the way to Chesapeake Bank, eager to see the next float and maybe get a piece of candy.
“We were very pleased with the parade—the weather was beautiful, the turnout by both participants and viewers was wonderful, and everyone had a festive time,” said Kat Larkin, executive director of the Mathews County Visitor and Information Center.
Including first responders, flag bearers, Santa Claus and grand marshal Shawn Cosby, this year’s parade had 52 entries. “We also had a flyover by local pilots, which was a fan favorite,” Larkin said. “We are so appreciative of the love and support shown by the community for this annual event.”
Parade winners included:
Best Parade Theme: Kiwanis and Key clubs with the Pet Parade;
Best Walking Unit: Mathews High School/Thomas Hunter Middle School Combined Marching Bands;
Best Motorized Unit: Tidewater and Khedive Shriners;
Best Antique Vehicle: John Porter and Lisa Popovich (1940 Chevy Deluxe);
Best Commercial Unit: Westville Landing / Bush Construction;
Best Civic Unit: Kiwanis and Key clubs;
Best Church Unit: Salem Church, Mathews;
Best School Unit: Mathews Elementary School Preschoolers;
Best Animal Unit: Canine Companions;
Honorable Mention: Santa on Joe Reid’s Antique Fire Engine.
Salem United Methodist Church youngsters Daphne Williams, Colten Hellebrandt and Earl Dye, from left, set sail in the church’s float. Also seen, in back, is Colten Haywood.
Mathews High School Key Club members Abby Krouse, Vivian Kollar, and Suki Zheng, from left, wave to the crowd and pass out candy. The Kiwanis and Key clubs with the Pet Parade won Best Parade Theme.
Carol Rogers, Kim Boehme and Lynda Alexander, from left, wave to the crowd as part of the Mathews Chapel UMC float. The Rev. Dr. Marcus Stallworth, pastor of the Cobbs Creek church, walked during the parade dressed as an elf. This was the first year for the church to have a float, and they plan to do it again next year.
Best-selling author Shawn Cosby, this year’s Mathews Christmas Parade grand marshal, is all smiles as he waves to the crowd.