Palm Springs hosts 23rd annual Festival of Lights Parade

PALM SPRINGS -- “The Festival of Lights Parade is a community event organized by the city of Palm Springs,” said Jasmine Sullivan-Waits, Palm Springs special events coordinator.

The parade hosted more than 90 holiday-themed floats from businesses and agencies in the Palm Springs area, like the Palm Springs Fire Department, California Highway Patrol, and two vehicles from the combat center, which were an Oshkosh Defense Logistics Vehicle System Replacement and Oshkosh Defense Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement, all decorated with holiday themed multi-colored lights.

“I absolutely love this parade,” said Kayla Waymire, a spectator at the parade. “It brings the community together. Some families have been out here all afternoon barbecuing and creating memories. All the floats with the loud music and colorful lights are fantastic.”

Before the parade kicked off, Marines from Combat Logistics Battalion 7 displayed their military vehicles answered questions and took photographs with people who attended the parade.

“It’s fun being out here and supporting the community,” said Lance Cpl. Matthew Quick, motor transportation operator, CLB-7, and a native of Newnan, Ga. “Interacting with the people and answering their questions about what I do and the equipment that we use is satisfying.”

This was the 23rd year that the city has hosted the parade. Different themed floats rolled through the street, spreading holiday cheer with attractions, like music from the motion picture "Frozen" and dancers in attire adorned with lights. The parade captured the glow of the season and the community.