V.I.P.s — Local veterans accepted an invitation by the Brooke County Area Chamber of Commerce to appear as grand marshals in the Wellsburg Christmas parade. -- Warren Scott

WELLSBURG — While rain poured through Friday night, clouds cleared by Saturday morning, allowing sunshine to brighten Charles Street for the many participating in the Wellsburg Christmas parade held by the Brooke County Area Chamber of Commerce.

Recognition of the men and women who have served our nation in the military was the theme for the event, and local veterans accepted the chamber’s invitation to appear as grand marshals on a patriotic float sponsored by TEAM Ford, a major sponsor of the parade.

A large delegation of American Legion Riders from the Weirton area also rode along the parade route on their motorcycles, while the parade was headed by youth in the Tri-State Young Marines’ color guard.

The groups were among many units in the parade, which included performances by the marching bands of Brooke and Weir high schools, the Brooke High School Dance Team and the Studio dance school.

There were several festive floats, both professionally produced and assembled by volunteers and representatives of many area fire, police and ambulance departments.

A COOL ENTRY — While the temperature didn’t reach freezing levels during the Wellsburg Christmas parade Saturday morning, attendees were treated to a glimpse of snow from this float sponsored by the village of Beech Bottom. It was one of many festive entries in the procession, which was held by the Brooke County Area Chamber of Commerce. -- Warren Scott

While the temperature didn’t dip to freezing levels, parade-watchers were treated to a a surprise “snowfall” emanating from a snow-maker aboard the wintry float carrying the Abominable Snowman and sponsored by the village of Beech Bottom.

Among the parade’s many spectators was Emily Cook of Wellsburg, who brought her children, Joshua, 8, and Gabby, 6.

“This is the first time for all three of us,” said Cook, who explained they usually are out of town visiting family when the parade is held.

Cook said her family enjoyed a Christmas movie marathon on Friday night and likes spending time together around the holiday decorating their home and making their own Christmas ornaments.

“We just moved down here, so I decided to step out and hang out,” said Nicky Ayers, who was in a large group of adults and children attending the parade together.

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON — Many were entertained by the Brooke High School marching band as it made its way down Charles Street during the Wellsburg Christmas parade held Saturday by the Brooke County Area Chamber of Commerce. -- Warren Scott

The group included Taylor Russell of Weirton, who said she comes every year with her young children.

Russell said spending time with them at Christmas “makes it fun.”

Wesley Casey and Alissa Pedelose of Benwood were enjoying attending the parade for the first time with their 1-year-old son, Conway.

“We’re just waiting for snow. We’re excited for him to experience it,” said Alissa.

Casey noted West Virginia winters are much different than those in his home state of Florida, but he finds the Mountain State’s scenery very pretty.

SPECIAL GUEST — An appearance by Santa Claus brought an end to the Wellsburg Christmas parade held Saturday by the Brooke County Area Chamber of Commerce. Following the parade, Santa and Mrs. Claus met with many children on the Wellsburg Town Square. -- Warren Scott

Accompanying Doug Mitchell of Wellsburg and Mary Tingler of Steubenville were Tingler’s daughters, Autumn, 8, and Heavenly, 6.

Asked what she likes best about Christmas parades, Autumn said seeing characters like Paw Patrol or Minnie Mouse.

Her sister said, “Taking pictures with Santa and the Grinch.”

The Grinch was lurking along the parade route, but there were no reports of missing presents or treats.

Santa and Mrs. Claus remained after the parade to meet with children on the Town Square.

, where members of the chamber and Wellsburg United Methodist Church served refreshments.