West Chester Christmas parade brings holiday cheer

WEST CHESTER, Pa. (WPVI) -- The Christmas spirit is on display on the streets of West Chester Friday night.

From the marching bands to huge balloons, the annual parade is bringing holiday cheer to some 40,000 spectators.

Phaedra Orr of Barto, Pa. said, "I like the excitement, people and atmosphere and energy."

Local dancers and recording artist and South Jersey native, Ashlee Keating kicked off the parade that's being recorded by QVC.

Lights and decorations make the center of town look picture perfect according to Miss America Cara Mund.

"It feels like I'm in a dream or movie. It's a cute town. People have been so nice as well," she said.

Families packed the sidewalks for the annual parade now in its 38th year.

Lashantia Cooper of West Chester has been coming since the beginning.

"One of the best parades on the east coast, wouldn't miss it for the world," she said.

This year she brought her grandkids and daughter-in-law.

Liz Cosella of West Chester referring to the kids said, "She enjoys the music and bands going by. He likes all the trucks and police."

The parade means extra business for local businesses, like the coffee and ice cream shop.

Kayla Delagrange of West Chester Coffee and Ice Cream Shop said, "Usually our flow is steady, but this night is 5 times as many people. Everybody asking for hot chocolate. Even ice cream."

But for some kids, the night is all about seeing the big guy and soaking in the holiday cheer.

Meteorologist Adam Joseph co-hosted the parade tonight. The parade will air on 6abc on December 23.

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