Carrollton Christmas parade draws nearly 100 units despite cold

Carrollton’s annual Christmas parade continues to grow, with nearly 100 units — including 64 registered entries — helping make Saturday evening’s event enjoyable despite temperatures in the mid-30s.

Longtime Carrollton businesswoman Elaine Painting served as grand marshal of the 6 p.m. parade, which was led by a color guard of veterans and the Carrollton High School Marching Band.

Based on the theme “A Country Christmas,” the parade featured numerous decorated vehicles, floats and walking units.

Award winners were selected by judges from the Carrollton Rotary Club in six categories.

Unified Bank won the Best Overall Country Christmas award.

Other award winners were:

Santa’s Boot — Best Marching or Walking Unit — Carrollton Marching Band. 

Best in the Barn — Best Entry Featuring Animals — Shoff Llama Farm. 

Santa’s Lil’ Buckaroo’s — Best Entry Featuring Children — Starstruck Gymnastics. 

Christmas Fruitcake — Most Humorous Entry — Augusta 4-H Ranchers. 

Haulin’ In the Holidays — Best Decorated ATV, vehicle or tractor (no float) — Ohio Department of Transportation.

All plaques for the winners were designed and donated by Myers Tin Shop.