- December 11, 2024
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The Sarasota Holiday Parade saw the man in the red suit, Santa Claus.
Yet it was also a showcase of Sarasota, with organizations and businesses in the area having the chance to put their community spirit on display.
For instance, Terry Deshaies, riding with The Dark Side - Comics & Games, enjoys dressing as Freddy Mercury and leading the crowds in chants of "Ay-Oh!" each year.
Among the many participants featured were animals from the Humane Society of Sarasota County, talented students from organizations, including Sailor Circus Academy and the giant puppets of CreArte Latino.
Monarch Tom Davie of Samoor Grotto, a Masonic organization that helps special needs children with dental issues, said the parade was important for making the community aware of the organization's presence.
"We've been here quite a number of years, over and over and over again," he said. "They finally recognize who we are. You've got to continue. You can't show up once and not go do it again. We like it. It's our hometown, so why wouldn't we? We're part of the community."
Katlyn Turner of Acro Fit Gymnastics called the parade a "really good team bonding experience" for the organization's young gymnasts.
"We love the holiday parade," she said. "The Sarasota Holiday Parade organization does such an amazing job every year. We have a really good time."