MACON, Ga. — The Christmas spirit was alive in downtown Macon on Sunday as the Macon Christmas Parade made its way through the streets.
Hundreds bundled up and lined blocks of Cherry and Mulberry Streets to see the sights and sounds of Macon's Christmas Parade. The parade started at 4 p.m.
For many there, they say going to the parade has become a tradition.
"Me and my family come out here every year to watch the parade," said Antonius Jackson.
"It's a family tradition to get the holiday season started," said Jodi Battle.
"We love the crowd. We love the scene," said Sheryl Williams.
Kids got a glimpse of some holiday favorites: a gingerbread man, snowmen, and even the Grinch who's already made the naughty list.
County leaders also passed through including Sheriff David Davis, Mayor Lester Miller and District Attorney Anita Howard.
You could even catch Fire Chief Shane Edwards, commissioners and more on top of a fire truck cruising down Cherry Street.
Several bands were also seen marching along to the beat of their drums, including the Central High marching band, Northeast High Red Machine marching band, Westside High Marching Seminoles and others.
"The band playing. I love to hear the music," Jackson said.
This was a parade fit for Macon royalty. The Cherry Blossom Queen, Princess, Little Miss, Mister and more of the court waved to the crowd along with Miss Macon too.
Whether it's the music, the fun floats, or just being together, Maconites say the parade has something for everyone that keeps people coming back year after year.
"My favorite thing is just the gathering and everyone just showing love," Williams said.
"The different organizations that you maybe didn't know about in Macon," Battle said.
"The relaxation. just being able to watch the crowds," Williams said.