Fun Days Parade

I have to admit that I was somewhat disappointed this year in our Fun Days Parade. In years past, the parade seemed to be much better organized. This year, there were big gaps between the walking advertisements and bands. The bands were playing very sad music. I'm thinking, maybe it's the economy? I don't know.

On the plus side, there was still plenty of candy for everyone. There was pop given out. Even piizza was given out. There were some fun "floats." (I don't know what else to call them.) People were still having a good time, but so many kids and adults were saying, "Is this thing over yet?"

Not to be such a gloom and doom person about this. I know it takes a lot of work to organize and execute a parade that lasts just a touch over 2 hours. So, I'd like to show you some of the most enjoyable parts of the parade.

Horses, there are always horses! Note the top picture, but how about this little guy?
















Isn't he cute? He seemed to enjoy walking the parade route.

















Then there was AJ, a local photographer. He said that he didn't mind having his picture taken. He was taking photos for a local magazine.


















As always, "Pile it On" benefited the local food shelf. Donations of cash and cans were taken for this cause.



I only wish I knew the name of this group! They were great entertainers, and they did entertain! The would walk a few steps and play. Then they would cross the street and play to the audience. They were a hit! Everyone loved them and the way they played.

The Rest of the Parade

There really was a lot more to this parade than I am able to show you. The best I can do is to give you the highlights of the rest of the parade.

Let's start with our local TV personalities. Here's our local weatherman, Mark Tarello. He was out helping to collect food for the local food shelf.

Here's one of the many interesting "floats" in the parade. It's from the Nicollet County Historical Society, I think.
This is a drum core that marched in the parade. They were fun to watch.
The Shriners made a visit, too.

Here is the Queen and her court!

What do we have left? This was the most interesting "float" in the parade. All I could think about was, "Will the trees catch on fire?" The device is what fills a hot air balloon.
What's this you say? Did the Lancers change clothes and end the parade? The answer is no, they didn't change clothes, but they did end the parade, at least the RETIRED Lancers who returned did.

Last, but not least, comes the cleanup crews. First the boy scouts who collect aluminum cans as a fund raiser. People either throw the cans in the street for pick up or they aim for the basket on the cart.
The final end of the parade is marked by the street cleaners and their machines as they dust off the street at the end of the parade.
A good timem was had by all! Tomorrow, the walk home!