Thousands Line Main St. for Seal Beach’s Annual Parade

As Santa Claus made his way down Main Street in his ornate sleigh Friday evening, 67-year-old Don Stegen waved wildly at St. Nick and smiled from ear to ear.

“Hey, I got to see Santa Claus,” said the lifelong Seal Beach resident. “I wouldn’t have missed it for anything.”

Stegen, who attended the parade with his wife and children, was among the more than 7,000 people who crowded both sides of Main Street for the city’s annual Christmas parade.

The popular downtown strip was transformed for the occasion with blinking lights in trees that were made to resemble candy canes. The event brought out a crowd of all ages and featured drill teams, businesses, community groups and boisterous marching bands.

“This is great hometown stuff,” said resident Violet Reynolds, who wore reindeer antlers. “I come here every year because of the camaraderie. Everyone is in the parade--from the dogs to the kids.”

Friday’s event marked the first parade appearance of 3-year-old Christian Miner, who was dressed as Santa Claus and rode stoically in a red wagon that had been transformed into a miniature sleigh. The child, who was representing Lil’ Cottonwood Preschool in Rossmoor, was accompanied by his nervous but proud parents.

“He sure had a lot of fun,” said 26-year-old Dave Miner, the boy’s dad.

For Missy and Scott Scarborough, both 34, the parade was a particularly proud moment because both of their young sons marched in it along with their Indian Guide group.

“This really puts you in the holiday mood,” said Missy Scarborough. “We love it because this is a small town--a small town next to the big city.”

Craig Woods, 45, and his 16-year-old daughter, Kristin, watched the parade from in front of a surfboard shop.

“I’ve been to the Rose Parade, but I like this one more because it’s small and you know everybody,” Craig Woods said.

His daughter said the parade is a holiday tradition for the family. “It’s just great to see Santa every year in his great big sleigh.”

Robert Howson, the owner of Harbor Surf Boards on Main Street, said the parade is one of the highlights of his year.

“It’s awesome,” said Howson, 33. “The best thing about it is that it brings family together. . . . It renews friendships. It’s a nice safe place to enjoy it.”

Seal Beach Police Sgt. Mike Vasquez said the massive crowd was orderly throughout the night’s activities.

“It was an outstanding night,” Vasquez said. “No problems at all.”