The skies were clear and the streets were lined with smiling faces during the 11th annual Keaau Village Lighted Christmas Parade on Saturday evening.
The skies were clear and the streets were lined with smiling faces during the 11th annual Keaau Village Lighted Christmas Parade on Saturday evening.
The vast crowd soaked in the Christmas cheer as the parade entrants interpreted this year’s theme, “A Very Sporty Christmas.” Among the entries were marching bands, floats, classic cars, beautiful horses, roller girls and, of course, Santa Claus all decked out in lights.
The Hilo Pony League 2014 World Series champions joined the fun as the parade’s celebrated grand marshalls. Newly elected Gov. David Ige and his wife also honored Keaau with their presence, as well as several local politicians.
Winning entrants by category were:
Small floats
First place: Paradise Roller Girls and Big Island Babes Junior Roller
Second place: Keaau Post Office
Third place: AK Cleaning & Party Planning
Medium floats
First place: Foodland Keaau
Second place: Keaau Cougars Athletic Booster
Third place: Keaau Elementary PTSA
Large floats
First place: Hawaii Surf Big Island Soccer Club
Second place: Merahi Productions
Marching Band
1st Place – Kea’au Middle & High School Band
Marching units
First place: Puna Panthers Football Association
Second place: Keaau High School Cougar Cheerleaders
Third place: Hilo Pathfinder Club
Big rigs
First place: Iron Horse Trucking
Second place: Ken’s Towing Service Inc
Third place: Iron Horse Water Hauling
The parade is hosted by the Keaau Christmas Parade Committee. Anyone interested in being part of the team or who wants learn more can call the WH Shipman office at 966-9325. Also, be sure to check out the parade’s Facebook page for more pictures and information.