Guiding in the season
The Girl Guides from the Russell Area were a sight for sore eyes during Russell’s annual parade on Nov. 26. The girls, decked out in multi-coloured snow suits with their badges, capes and sashes, sparkled through the town.   Sawyer Helmer photo

Winter waddle wonderland
The Optimiste Clubs of Russell and Embrun marched down Concession Street in Russell for the annual parade on Sun., Nov. 26. The club’s members dressed as penguins to keep warm and brought smiles to the many onlooking faces.

Kalynn Sawyer Helmer
Villager Staff

RUSSELL – The Russell Christmas parade was held on Sun., Nov. 26. Volunteers from the Russell Fire Department told the crowd on Sunday that 2017 was the largest attendance yet.

The Fire Department led the way from St. Thomas Aquinas CHS down Concession Street to the Russell fairgrounds. Mr. and Mrs. Claus brought up the rear of the party and sprinkled some holiday magic on the gathered spectators.

After the parade, Mr. and Mrs. Claus visited the eager children and parents in the arena where photos were taken by the fire department. The lineup to see Mr. and Mrs. Claus was wrapped around the room filled with excited children.

Christmas wishes
Adalynn Donovan (4), of Russell and Junior Kindergarten student at Mother Teresa Catholic School, enjoyed the parade with her grandmother on Sun., Nov. 26. After the parade Adalynn, with her mother and grandmother, were first in line to meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus at the Russell Arena.

Meanwhile, the organizers announced the winning floats as follows: Most creative – Russell Public School, Most festive – Russell Optimist Club, Best group – Russell Skating Club and Fan favourite – Russell hockey. Every float and group involved did a spectacular job of decorating and making the parade a holiday event to remember.