Despite questionable weather, the parade went off without a hitch.

Some 55,000 people filled the streets of downtown St. John’s on Sunday and had their Christmas wishes granted as a number of big and flashy floats, marching bands, dancing groups and characters, including the Maple Leaf Big Stick Bologna, weaved their way through the downtown.

Gaylynne Gulliver of Downtown St. John’s says making the decision to go with a less than perfect forecast was a tough one, but the right one as the sun broke out just in time for the parade.

Over 20,000 pounds of food with a cash value of $50,000 was collected in support of the Community Food Sharing Association, along with thousands in cash donations.

Naveah’s Lemonade Stand and John Denine Towing took home the best non-corporate float award. Winning groups will be presented with awards at a ceremony at City Hall on December 9th.

Here’s a list of the winners:

Charlie Cook Community Spirit Award:
The Telegram

Best Corporate Floats:
1. OZ FM
2. Bogart’s Jewellery and Davanna’s
3. Cougar Helicopters

Best Non- Corporate Floats:
1.Nevaeh’s Lemonade Stand and John Denine Towing
2.Canadian Mental Health Association
3.JDFR – Juvenile Diabetes

Best Performing Groups
1.Barbara Ashley School Dance
2.Jill Dreaddy Danceco
3.Revolutions Dance

Best Marching Band
1.Salvation Army Band
2.Music Collection Drumline
3.514 Kinsmen Royal Canadian Air Cadets

Pictures and Video by Earl Noble