BEATRICE - An event that's grown in popularity over just a few years in southeast Nebraska was back, this weekend.  The Beatrice Holiday Lighted Parade celebrated its sixth year, early Saturday night.


Thousands lined Fifth Street to watch illuminated private and public entries in the nighttime event travel north from an area south of the downtown, to Charles Park near the historic Carnegie Building.


The evening’s parade was preceded by music from the Homestead Harmonizers and Beatrice Community Band….and a chance for children to see Santa’s Reindeer. A live Nativity Scene was held in front of the Presbyterian Church, which was sponsored by St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and School.


Hot chocolate was served along North 5th… at Sunrise Bakery and Carriage Motors. Also planned was a children's chance to meet with Santa Claus at Charles park after the parade, face painting with the Beatrice High School cheerleaders and an ugly sweater party at the Vintage Venue.


A Santa run was held as part of the Holiday Lighted Parade, which this year returned to its usual format. Last year, the event was a drive-through parade, where motorists traveling by, viewed stationary floats and displays, because of social distancing brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.