Hayden lights up for holidays

HAYDEN — Holiday cheer was in the air Saturday night as hundreds braved the cold to watch the Hayden lights parade and Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

Among them was Shelley Hickox of Hayden, whose 4-year-old daughter basked in the sights and sounds of her first holiday parade — particularly the fire trucks.

“It was really fun,” Hickox said.

Her family also took a whirl around the Christmas market in McIntire Family Park, where dozens of vendors sold unique gifts, as well as food and drink.

“I got a present for my mom,” she said with a smile.

The parade featured veterans, music, dozens of decorated vehicles and floats — and, naturally, Santa Claus. He waved to children as candy flurried down like snowflakes.

The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office rolled down the street towing a cell. The Grinch was locked up inside, trying to saw through the bars.

“Christmas is saved,” a deputy called over a loudspeaker. “He’s getting 20 years!”

Many children cheered at the news, though some called for the Grinch’s release. A real crowd-pleaser, the display earned the Holiday Extraordinaire award.

Students from Alta Dance Academy received the Judge’s Choice award. The dancers wowed onlookers as they twirled to festive music in skirts that glowed red and green.

Prairie H20 picked up the prize for Best in Parade for a multicolored wagon pulled by a pair of mules.

The Hayden Meadows Elementary Special Chorus led the crowd in a community sing-along of “Silent Night,” which culminated in the lighting of the Christmas tree.

Hayden Mayor Scott Forssell led the countdown to hit the switch and light up the city’s star-topped tree.

He thanked the city's recreation department for their work in getting the holiday celebration set up and extended special thanks to P1FCU and Super 1 Foods, the community event's sponsors.

“This could not happen without a whole lot of support,” Forssell said.