Last week, the Chobani Holiday of Lights Parade brought magic to the streets of Norwich with beautiful displays of wintery wonderment. Many amazing floats filled the streets, leaving judges with a hard job to place the top winners. More photos on page 16. (Photo by Zachary Meseck)

NORWICH — Last week, The Chobani Holiday of Lights Parade brought magic to the streets of Norwich with beautiful displays of wintery wonderment.

Parade floats were over the top, from a lit up Polar Express school bus to the Norwich Steam Engine, a BigRig trailer filled with snowy lit trees and a snowmobiler driving through the pines, followed by a long trailer carrying holiday enthusiasts, and more.

Norwich Event Coordinator Mindy Chawgo said every float was amazing with special care given to bring holiday happiness to all. She thanked and congratulated the many participants that effortlessly partnered to make the parade a beautiful holiday event.

“I'd like to say many thank yous to Chobani, Live Event NY, Norwich YMCA, Chenango Greenway Conservancy, City Church Norwich, Kauffman's Buildings, Norwich Tractor, the Norwich Police Department, the judges, the Fords, and Santa,” she said.

Chawgo noted judges Shawn Luke Hess-Murphy, Maria and Bug Loughren, and Dave and Shae Harris had a tough job deciding on the top place winners but with deliberate scrutiny, they made their decisions.

“Trophies were awarded, along with bragging rights,” she added.

"Everyone that participated was a winner, even if not judged as winning, every entry and participating organization is what made the parade perfect," said Chawgo.

"Thank you all so much, your participation and support completed our parade family," Chawgo continued. "We couldn't have done this without you and we are so blessed with this magical night to escort Santa to his igloo."