Auburnians better not pout, and they better not cry. The red-hatted man with a white beard is coming to town, and he's bringing some family fun with him.

Downtown Auburn will officially begin the holiday season Saturday as the Downtown Business Improvement District throws its annual Holiday Parade and Family Fun Day. The 22-year-old event features dozens of activities and attractions.

Santa Claus himself will make an appearance at the end of the evening, and he will stay until every child gets to meet and talk with him, according to Connie Tallcot of the BID.

“Santa is a patient man,” Tallcot said.

The annual event will boast activities and crafts for guests of all ages, as well as live music and a Thanksgiving show. There will be free cookies, cocoa and chili tasting for all visitors.

A parade showcasing the Auburn Fire Department, Auburn Civic Band and more than 40 floats and participants will precede a tree lighting ceremony. During the afternoon, a bonfire will keep crowds warm.

Tallcot said the organizers also expanded one of the event's most popular attractions. The horse-drawn wagon rides will feature two full-sized carriages instead of one buck board.

This way, people will be able to get their ride quicker, she said.

“Last year, there was a very long waiting line,” she said. “It is no fun waiting in the cold.”

The Cayuga County chapter of the American Red Cross handed out about 2,000 cups of hot cocoa last year, Tallcot continued. The parade has become a popular annual tradition for local families, she said.

“It shows the excitement for the holidays and the community spirit with so many people coming downtown and enjoying the activities,” Tallcot said.

Auburn Mayor Michael Quill said that the holiday parade serves as the kickoff for everyone's season. And while many of the attendees may be watching the skies, Quill said some snow might be a welcome sight.

“When you think of Christmas, you think of a northeast town with the snow blowing,” Quill said.

And when many people think of celebrating holidays, they think of parades, Tallcot said. This year's parade already has more participants than last year.

One of the unique aspects of parades is that they are fun for the people who watch and participate in them, Tallcot continued. Local groups like the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts get to go out and march together, and people get to use their imagination when they create their floats, she said.

“It's about bringing people together, having fun,” Tallcot said.

Christopher Caskey

253-5311 ext. 282

christopher.caskey@lee.net