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The 46th annual Helena Christmas parade honored the Helena Fire Department on Saturday, Dec. 3, as thousands came out to enjoy the day. (For the Reporter/Eric Starling)

By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–The heavy rain held off just in time for thousands of residents to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy the sights and sounds of the 46^th annual Helena Christmas parade on Saturday, Dec. 3.

The theme for this year’s parade was “Put the fire out…Santa’s coming,” as the parade honored the city’s fire department for the outstanding service they provide to Helena residents.

The Helena Fire Department trucks, as well as many other surrounding agencies’ trucks and personnel were also involved in the parade.

Thousands of residents, families and friends gathered along both sides of Shelby County 261 including the Beanblossum family to enjoy the parade and collect candy.

James Beanblossum, along with his wife Darlene and their two daughters, are 10-year residents of Helena who came out to enjoy the parade for the first time.

“I’ve just enjoyed coming out here and seeing all the local businesses participate in the parade,” James said. “It’s good to see our friends and neighbors on the floats. The best thing about Helena is everyone is friendly, it’s safe, the schools are great and there are always family festivities happening.”

The majority of the floats and vehicles in the parade went along with the “Put the fire out” theme as one sign read, “Don’t worry, Santa! HFD is going to knock that fire out” on the float for the 4^th grade Helena cheerleaders.

Other participants in the parade included Miss Alabama 2016 Hayley Barber, Miss Teen Alabama Olivia Railey, Publix, Premier Dance and Twirl Academy, Rocking S Farm, Alabama Ghostbusters Community, Helena Belles, Party Art Studio, Santa and Mrs. Claus, Helena Police and Fire Explorers, Helena City Council members, numerous youth cheerleaders and football teams, the Helena High School marching band, the Shelby Starlets and more.

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