Santa Arrives in Stone Harbor Greeted by Crowd

STONE HARBOR – Countless moms, dads, and grandparents, with little ones in arms, strollers or toddling along, filled the sidewalks here on Nov. 24 to watch the Christmas parade and greet Santa Claus.They braved a brisk cold wind that made no mistake that Old Man Winter was helping keep Santa comfortable with his standard cold temperature.
The North Pole’s top resident arrived in a Stone Harbor Beach Patrol boat, taking many spectators by surprise, since in recent memory, Santa had made his ride through town on a horse-drawn carriage accompanied by Mrs. Claus. This year, a company of elves joined Santa greeting the wellwishers.
The line of march went north on Third Avenue to 96th Street and then east, into the main business district where the reviewing stand was located.
Before the parade, there was caroling under the town clock on 96th Street, and plenty of time to gaze at and snap photos of the sandy Island Holiday Sculpture crafted throughout the week by artist John Gruber. The artwork was bathed in green and red lights adding a festive touch to the area. Unveiling of that sculpture took place on Nov. 23 at 6 p.m., and a wintry touch was added thanks to a snow machine, making good the promise that the forecast called 100 percent for snow.
The parade crowned the weekend festivities that helped to kick off the shopping season for the holidays among the many shops in the resort.