It was a festive atmosphere in downtown Escalon for the Sunday afternoon Christmas on Main event, a large crowd turning out to enjoy the activities.

Originally scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 14 organizers decided to postpone the annual holiday gathering and light parade until Sunday so as not to conflict with the state championship football game hosted in Escalon on Dec. 14.

The postponement also allowed for the Cougar football players and cheerleaders to take part in the parade on Sunday evening, with the varsity football team earning the Division 4-A state title and recognized for that accomplishment.

Mayor Robert Swift, who served as emcee for the holiday light parade, said organizers were pleased with the decision to delay Christmas on Main and he said he heard many positive comments from attendees. He also pointed to some outstanding floats in the parade, the entertainment on stage throughout the day and the near perfect weather conditions as adding to the success.

“The line for Santa was crazy, the train rides on Main Street were going well, everybody was getting dinner,” Swift said of the variety of booths and activities. “We had a great crowd, some great ‘snow’ falling, more entries than before in the parade … I think the Chamber of Commerce was able to bring that sense of community in a big way.”

Christmas on Main is coordinated by the Escalon Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with multiple sponsors and supporters. Vendor booths, crafts, games, a visit with Sanaa and the traditional fire pits for making s’mores were set up and the event ran from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Dec. 15, with the parade stepping off at 5:30 p.m. and lasting more than half an hour.

Serving as Grand Marshals were Robert and Debbie Leal, who said they were honored to be chosen and received special proclamations from Assemblyman Heath Flora’s and Congressman Josh Harder’s offices recognizing their contributions to the community.