New events are big hit at Pine River Parade of Lights

New events at the Pine River Parade of Lights event Saturday, Dec. 11, were a big hit, including the first Stuff Your Stocking activity where 114 children collected goodies from the gathered cars.

The Pine River Public Library sponsored a make your own stocking event that saw at least 70 custom stockings go out the door.

Also during the day, Santa and Mrs. Claus made multiple stops, starting at River Fitness and then at the Pine River Historic Railway Depot. These and many other events concluded with the titular parade, where participants decked out their floats with lights.

Pine River Dental Arts was top dog matching the "Story Book Christmas" theme this year with Sherwood Florist coming in second.

Pine River Bakery won first place for the best use of lights with Trussworthy Components following close behind.

1/4: Santa and Mrs. Claus lean in close to ask what one young child wants for Christmas at the River Fitness event during the Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021 Parade of Lights event. Travis Grimler / Echo Journal

2/4: Santa Claus played conductor on Sherwood Florist's float during the Parade of Lights in Pine River on Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021. Dan Determan / Echo Journal

3/4: Miss Pine River royalty wave to the crowd during the Parade of Lights in Pine River on Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021. Dan Determan / Echo Journal

4/4: The mean old grinch greets the crowd from the LakeView Tree Co. float during the Parade of Lights in Pine River on Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021. Dan Determan / Echo Journal