(PHOTOS BY BREANA RELIFORD, THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
A CHRISTMAS TRADITION … The Annual Christmas Parade is a long-lasting tradition in the community of West Unity.
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR… Walking in the parade alongside her family is Cathie Batt, who was awarded the 2024 West Unity Citizen of the Year.
MERRY AND BRIGHT… The Mayor of West Unity, Don Leu, went all out in decorating his vehicle for the parade.
LOUD AND PROUD … The Hilltop Cadet Marching Band played festive tunes during the parade, with many from the crowd humming along.
By: Breana Reliford
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
Joy and festivity were two common themes of West Unity’s 2024 Christmas Parade Celebration.
All the way down the main strip, community members were lined up and could be seen sporting Santa hats, Christmas sweaters, and even a few reindeer antlers in light of the upcoming holiday season.
The parade took place on Saturday, December 7, 2024, beginning at 5:30pm. Citizens gathered in front of local businesses to support those taking part in the parade.
The parade began their route at F&M Bank and traveled up through town until they reached the American Legion.
The parade kicked off with Business of the Year, Red Hen Country Market, and Citizen of the Year, Cathie Batt, leading the way decorated in lights and bright smiles.
Not far behind was the 2024 Hilltop Cadets Marching Band, serenading the crowd with well-known holiday tunes.
A few other decorated vehicles and parade entries made their way down the route, preceding Santa and Mrs. Claus, who waved and welcomed children to come greet them after the parade concluded.
The community of West Unity is very festive this year, as many lights and decorations can be found all over town, especially at Memorial Park.
The Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony also took place at Friendship Park, shortly after the parade. Here, Citizen of the Year Cathie Batt did the honors of lighting the tree, symbolizing that the Christmas season had officially begun in West Unity.