Las Aguilas De Oro Folklorico dancers brought the parade’s Fiesta Christmas theme to life for the judges, their dancers lifting and sweeping their skirts as they moved along the route.
Las Aguilas De Oro Folklorico dancers brought the parade’s Fiesta Christmas theme to life for the judges, their dancers lifting and sweeping their skirts as they moved along the route. Photos by Shawn White
Native American traditional dancers made their way along the parade route.
The annual Winslow Christmas Parade held in downtown Winslow brings together the various cultures of the community in this celebratory event.
Fire Chief Michael Duran and his wife, Claudia, make their way down the parade route.
The Arizona Public Service crew brings out a towering inflatable pinata that went on to win Best Float in this year’s parade.
After his visit at the Chamber of Commerce, Santa rode atop a Winslow Fire Department truck and brought the parade to its finish as the final entry in the parade.
Winslow Mayor Birdie Cano takes part in the parade festivities.
Before the parade Santa, Mrs. Claus and an elf welcomed families at the Chamber of Commerce, where children left with a goodie bag and a book from the Friends of the Library. Here, little Charlotte Palfy sits on Santa’s lap with her parents, Zach and Samantha Palfy, close by.

The streets of downtown Winslow filled with holiday spirit last Saturday as the community gathered for the 78th annual Christmas Parade, a tradition that has grown into one of the city’s most beloved events. Despite rain the day before and showers returning just hours after the parade ended, the weather cooperated throughout the festivities. A light breeze carried the smell of kettle corn along the route as families and vendors lined the sidewalks, many of whom had claimed their favorite spots more than a week in advance.

This year’s parade, organized by the Winslow Chamber of Commerce, celebrated the theme “A Fiesta Christmas” and featured more than 60 participating organizations. Grand Marshal Ruby Carson led the procession, followed by an array of entries from local businesses, schools, churches and tribal organizations. City and county leaders were also well represented, with appearances by Winslow Mayor Birdie Cano, Vice Mayor Jim MacLean, Councilmember Darcey McKee, City Manager David Coolidge, Police Chief Ernie Cano, Fire Chief Michael Duran and Navajo County Supervisor Fern Benally.

A flyover from Guardian Air’s medical transport helicopter thrilled spectators as it hovered above the parade route, marking one of the day’s standout moments.

Judges awarded the sweepstakes prize to Winslow Residential Hall, which earned 45 points, the highest total of the day. Krazy Cal followed closely with 42 points and the Winslow Arts Council secured third with 41 points, tying with the Arizona Department of Corrections, which placed fourth with the same score.

Category honors rounded out the celebration: the Winslow High School marching band took home Band Winner, the Winslow High School Spiritline earned Dance Group recognition, Arizona Public Service was named Best Float, Hotevilla won the youth float category and Dilkon Vets were selected as Military Winner.

Hundreds, if not thousands, of residents and visitors lined the streets to take in the festive displays, colorful costumes and lively performances. Vendors set up booths all along the route, giving families plenty to enjoy before, during and after the parade.

For a full gallery of photos from the 78th annual Winslow Christmas Parade, visit TribuneNewsNow.com.