Participants and Attendees Reflect on Salina’s Most Spectacular Parade of Lights Yet

Salina, KS — The streets of downtown Salina came alive on November 23rd with the glow of the annual Parade of Lights, an event that has become a cornerstone of the holiday season in the region. This year’s parade set a record with over 120 entries, making it one of the longest and most well-attended in its history.

Community members and visitors alike marveled at the creativity and energy on display. Dawn Dennison, a long-time Salina resident, shared her reflections on the parade's evolution over the years. “My family and I have been attending the Parade of Lights on and off since the 80s, and this one was the best thus far,” she said. “To see our community join together with so many outside communities to pull the parade off was heartwarming. The floats were bigger, brighter, and taller. It was a huge success, and people are still talking about it on social media!”

Wanda Lynch, another parade attendee, echoed the excitement. “It was very nice with lots of lights!” she said, adding that she had a wonderful time enjoying the festivities.

Amy Allen, a Direct Support Professional with New Horizon Services, shared how much the parade meant to her clients. “Our clients from New Horizon Services had a blast and appreciate the opportunity to be a part of the parade this year,” she said. Allen added that their dog, Renegade, became an unexpected star of the evening. “Renegade was a hit at the parade, almost more important than the candy it seemed. He loves kids and loved every second of it.”

Highlights From the Parade

Among the many standout entries, Shannon’s Stars Twirling Club captivated the crowd. Karyn Underwood, whose daughter Abigail-Rose performed with the group, participated as a volunteer handing out candy. “We enjoyed ourselves and loved seeing the Salina community out enjoying the holiday fun,” Underwood said.

Another crowd favorite was Peggy Timmons-Hawk’s iconic “Yellow Submarine Bus,” which brought a playful and nostalgic energy to the parade. “Everyone was yelling and screaming with excitement,” Timmons-Hawk said. “Just seeing the smiles on the faces of the kids makes it worth it! We’ve already signed up for next year. Yellow Submarine will be participating!”

A Community Tradition

The parade drew families from Salina and beyond, celebrating the start of the holiday season with dazzling lights, music, and cheer. With entries ranging from intricately designed floats to community groups and local businesses, the event highlighted the creativity and holiday spirit of the region.

For many attendees, the Parade of Lights is more than just an event—it’s a tradition that brings people together. “It’s amazing to see how the times have changed over the years,” Dennison added. “In the 80s, the highlight was a little carousel on a trailer. Now, the floats are more extravagant and exciting than ever.”

This year’s Parade of Lights demonstrated the strength and vibrancy of the Salina community, leaving attendees excited for next year’s celebration. Whether as spectators or participants, residents are already looking forward to continuing the tradition in 2025.