NAPPANEE — “We’re blessed as a community to have such great residents and businesses,” commented Nappanee Mayor Phil Jenkins, and the annual Miracle at Main and Market Parade, followed by a tree lighting ceremony, provided an occasion for the community to celebrate its blessings Saturday evening, Dec. 2.

Attendees had unusually warm weather with which to enjoy the roughly 20 minute procession, beginning with a strolling nativity complete with actual sheep and camels and ending with Santa Claus riding a fire engine, combining the spiritual and more commercial Christmas traditions.

In between were Northwood High School football, basketball and cheer teams, Boys and Girls Clubs of Nappanee, police and fire departments and representatives from a host of other businesses, churches and service organizations.

Following the parade, a crowd gathered in the pavilion at the southwest corner of Market and Clark Streets, where the tree lighting ceremony was held.

Nappanee Mayor Phil Jenkins reads the biblical Christmas story at the tree lighting ceremony following the parade.

The Miracle at Main and Market Parade committee director, Alison Stair, led the crowd in a group sing-a-long of carols before Mayor Jenkins thanked the street and park departments and chamber of commerce for their work in putting the event together. Jenkins also reminded the crowd of the true meaning of Christmas with a reading of the Christmas story from the BIble. The lighting of candles then took place as the crowd sang “Silent Night,” led by Stair.

The tree was donated by Rex Hochstetler and family and dedicated to Anne Hochstetler Valdez.