Santa Claus was carried safely through the parade by the hard working crew at the Benenettsville Fire Department
Lauren Monica | Herald Advocate
“I’ve been a part of the Christmas parade for the last six years and I enjoy it more each year,” says David Jack Herndon, owner of Jack’s Towing Service. “It’s always a blessing for me to see the kids’ smile and share in their excitement. It means more to me to be a part of the parade for the kids than to bring any recognition to the business.”
Brittany Jones with Main Street Bennettsville (picured back row, center) enjoyed leading the way for Santa with her fellow Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority sisters.
The Leader’s Float was spearheaded by Mayor Tyron Abraham. “I would like to thank everyone who participated in or attended our annual parade. It was another huge success and it would not have been possible without the support of our community,” said the Mayor.
BENNETTSVILLE — The streets of downtown Bennettsville clamored with excitement and holiday cheer Saturday, December 13 as folks gathered to catch a glimpse of Santa during Bennettsville’s annual Christmas parade.
Various schools, churches, local businesses, and city leaders all participated in the parade ahead of Santa Claus, whose much expected appearance ended the event.
In her second year being a part of the Christmas parade, owner of Dyamond Styles Debriana McCoy says she does it for the joy it brings to her community.
“I enjoy participating in the Christmas parade because it is always so much fun and exciting to be a part of. I especially love seeing the smiling faces of the people in our community, and of course, the kids are always so excited to be getting candy,” said McCoy.
Another local business, Jack’s Towing Service, has been a part of the much-loved annual parade for the last six years.
“I’ve been a part of the Christmas parade for the last six years and I enjoy it more each year,” says David Jack Herndon. “It’s always a blessing for me to see the kids’ smile and share in their excitement. It means more to me to be a part of the parade for the kids than to bring any recognition to the business.”
Emergency personnel like the Bennettsville Police Department, the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office, EMS, and several fire departments from across the county all came to spend time with the community and to ensure the safety of Santa, other parade participants, and attendees throughout the route.
Marlboro County Fire Coordinator Keith Hughes says the parade feels like the start of Christmas to him.
“Bennettsville’s parade is the highlight of the Christmas season for me. I grew up here and it always meant the official start of the holidays. We are thrilled so many county fire departments were available to participate and be a part of the special day.”
Brittany Jones with Main Street Bennettsville was thrilled to hear that so many had a great time and praised the opportunity the event provides for area businesses and vendors.
“Our annual Christmas parade is special because it’s about neighbors coming together, families creating memories, and filling our streets with joy and holiday spirit. Celebrating Christmas in downtown Bennettsville provides meaningful opportunities for our local merchants and vendors to thrive while strengthening the sense of community that makes our downtown special,” said Jones.
Mayor Tyron Abraham who was in the parade, also said he had a wonderful time.
“I would like to thank everyone who participated in or attended our annual parade. It was another huge success and it would not have been possible without the support of our community,” said the Mayor, adding, “A special thank you goes to our city employees for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to making this event memorable.”