Temecula Holiday Parade Brings Dazzling Display of Lights

Written by Mirna Alfonso

Scores of people braved the cold Friday night to line Old Town Front Street for Temecula's annual Electric Light Parade.

Lawn chairs, blankets, strollers and wagons were de rigeur for many families. Everyone was bundled up and in a jolly and festive mood. The parade began with lights and sirens as motorcycle cops drove in circles to lead the marchers.

The entries included a bus carrying people from Temecula's sister city, Daisen-Nakayama, Japan. Groups from Temecula, Murrieta and Wildomar also marched, along with high school bands.

Members of a karate club fought, pirouetted and somersaulted down the middle of Front Street, to much applause.

Many parade-goers cradled cups of hot chocolate and kettle corn being peddled from a lit cart, as the dazzling display of lights welcomed the holiday spirit to the city. Even Santa himself seemed impressed.