The 2024 Chobani Parade of Lights, organized by the Norwich Business Improvement District (BID) saw one of its biggest turnouts with more than 125 groups and organizations participating. Check Page 10 of today's Evening Sun for more photos. (Photo by BID)

NORWICH - The 2024 Chobani Parade of Lights illuminated downtown Norwich on Saturday, bringing together residents and visitors to celebrate the holiday season.

Organized by the Norwich Business Improvement District (BID) and sponsored by Chobani, the annual parade saw one of its biggest turnouts yet, with more than 125 participants, including businesses, schools, nonprofits, public safety organizations, and community groups.

BID Board Member Mindy Chawgo said “Thank you Chobani for making a night for us to celebrate the holidays, make memories and be around the community that we love! Everyone was truly amazing and it is impossible to pick any winners because you were all exceptional.”

The parade is a holiday tradition and showcased creative floats and decorated fire trucks, with thousands of local residents lining the streets.

The holiday season in Norwich will continue with the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:15 p.m. on Thursday, December 5, in West Park. Choir students from Perry Browne and Gibson schools will perform Christmas carols on the Chenango County Courthouse steps. Hot cocoa and s'mores will be available for attendees.

Santa Claus will also make special appearances this December in Norwich's East Park, stopping by his igloo for photo opportunities. Santa will be available each week leading up to Christmas, from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays and 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.

Families and pet owners alike are invited to visit on December 14 from 10 a.m. to noon and December 18 from 5 to 7 p.m. The "Santa Pictures with Pets" tradition, started in 2022, will welcome pets of all kinds, with treats provided by Kacey and Company. Donations collected during the event will benefit the Chenango SPCA.

The Parade of Lights and the season’s events are made possible through the support of local sponsors, including Chobani, Rentals To Go, Norwich Tractor, Burrell's Excavating, Live Event NY, Blueox Energy, and UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital.