You just can’t keep a good parade down. Even during COVID-19 and the ensuing lockdowns, the great people of La Porte brought holiday cheer to their downtown with a “reverse parade.” This year, however, saw a return to form with the traditional parade route once resuming along Lincolnway Ave., much to the delight of hundreds of local residents as well as families far and wide.
“It’s the kickoff for the holiday season,” said La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody. “This is what the community looks forward to, this is what the community loves and we’re excited to be a part of it.”
“We have so many choices and options here for people to enjoy, from the parade to our Small Business Saturday, which helps support small, local businesses. We also have Small Business Saturday Holiday Market going on today at the Civic Auditorium here in La Porte. That’s hosted by The Collective, a group of local artisans who host markets throughout the year. We also have the La Porte Christkindlemarket, hosted by Bethany Church, featuring a live band, an iceless skating rink, food trucks such as Ben’s Pretzels and Las Mamacitas Tacos and more, all for families to enjoy their holiday season right here in La Porte.”
“La Porte is a special place,” said Dermody.
Jamie Huss, Director of Washington Park Zoo of Michigan City, was proud to be taking part in the parade again this year.
“We love being here! We appreciate our local communities and love giving back whenever we can,” said Huss, as she helped her team of mascots get into costume before the parade. “At the zoo, we’re more excited than ever, looking forward to next year, next season and our new feline exhibit we’re working on.”
One particular fan favorite of the parade was the Rains of Life Train, sponsored in part by the South Shore Line.
“Recently, Tranco Services had donated this train to us at Rains of Life,” said Amanda Bubb, Lead Instructor for Rains of Life of Michigan City. “So, we reached out to the South Shore Line, who have generously agreed to sponsor us, not only here for this parade, but also for our Christmas at Reins of Life Event which we are proud to host in December, right there at our Michigan City location.”
The Christmas at Reins of Life Event will run on the weekends of December 10th and 11th, 17th and 18th at their facility located at 9375 W 300 N. in Michigan City, Indiana. Cost is just five dollars per person and the ride takes about 20 minutes.
“We welcome everyone to come out, ride the train and see our holiday lights display!” said Bubb. “We have a 46-acre facility with different themed areas such as the North Pole, Christmas on the Farm and more.”
Ashley Sparks of La Porte was attending the parade with her boyfriend Drake Dierdorf and their 7-month-old daughter, Rowan.
“This is Rowan’s first holiday, and I’ve actually never been to the Santa Parade,” said Sparks. “We figured it would be a nice time for us all to come out here today, and maybe start a new family tradition.”
Sparks said her favorite part of the parade was seeing Santa, who rode aboard a fire truck, which dropped him off at his chalet at Plaza 618, on the corner of Lincolnway and Monroe.
“I loved it! We can’t wait for Rowan to get a bit older, so she can be more aware and interact more,” said Sparks. “It’ll be so much fun!”
For more information about all the amazing things happening in the city of La Porte, visit them online at https://www.cityoflaporte.com/
