Photos: Annual Santa Parade makes spirits bright despite freezing temperatures

The Belleville Optimist Club held its annual Santa Claus Parade on Main Street despite temperatures dropping below freezing level.

Among the floats were representatives for the government, local businesses, dance troupes, and school marching bands.

Parking was hard to find, as it is every year, but smiles were in abundance despite the chill.

The parade started and ended in its traditional way, Santa waiving at children while also giving sage advice to young ones.

“Be on your best behavior!” Santa called on the microphone, reminding them of their duties, “and make sure you leave plenty of snacks for me. It’s always cookies, but I like egg rolls and pasta and food from all over the world!”

He was available for visits at his Belleville headquarters at 24 Public Square. He’ll maintain regular hours until Christmas:

• 1-4:30 p.m. and 7-8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28
• 6-8:30 p.m. Wednesday-Friday until Christmas week
• Noon to 5 p.m. and 6-8:30 p.m. Saturdays. Opens 1 p.m. Dec. 6
• Noon to 3 p.m. and 3:30-6 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 14
• Noon to 2:30 p.m., 3-5 p.m. and 6:8:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21
• Noon to 5 p.m. and 6-8:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22, and Tuesday, Dec. 23
• 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24

See photos of the annual event below.