Residents brave cold night to watch Christmas Parade

HUNTINGTON -- The evening weather might have dropped below the 40s, but that didn't stop the plans of hundreds of families and children to attend the Christmas Parade in Huntington on Tuesday night that stretched from 4th Avenue to Pullman Square.

Brianna Messinger said that parades year-round are a "must-go" for her and her family, especially at Christmastime.

"We come out every year," Messinger said. "I really enjoy listening to different high school bands play Christmas songs."

Messinger, 14, said there is no doubt in her mind that Christmas is her favorite holiday season and time of the year.

"I'm a teenager! I like presents!"

And so do Norm and Jennifer Strickland's kids; 8-year-old Sarah Strickland and 7-year-old Heather Strickland.

"I want 'Littlest Pets' for Christmas," shouted Sarah.

"I want 'Polly Race-to-the-wall," followed Heather.

Jennifer Strickland said the parade makes her kids happy and she always looks forward to seeing family and friends. She said her husband loves to get popcorn and peanuts.

"I'm originally from Miami, Fla., and I didn't see snow until I moved here in 1984," Norm said. "I remember how fun parades were when I was a kid. This is what everyone should do."