MIDDLEBORO – Before Santa climbed up the ladder of a firetruck with Mrs. Clause, he had a message for parade-goers.

“Be good because Santa is always watching,” he said.

Reindeer, Grinches and gingerbread men handed out candy to the crowd during Middleboro’s annual Christmas Parade on Saturday, Nov. 25. 

Four-year-old Lily Lebesque prepared for the parade by emptying out her jacket pockets, with the hope that they would be filled with candy canes and lollipops before the end of the event. 

“I want to see Santa,” she said. 

Along with the big man, parade participants waited to see floats created by the Middleboro Cobras, the Cub and Girl Scouts and other local organizations. 

Cub Scouts Joseph Mcleod, 10, and Skyler Anderson, 10, escorted Select Board Chair Mark Germain and Vice Chair Brian Giovanoni as they led the parade. 

“It makes me happy,” said Mcleod about handing out candy. “I get way too much candy on Christmas, like my whole stocking is full.”

The middle and high school marching bands played tunes throughout the parade to keep holiday spirits high while baton twirlers performed their routines and handed out candy. 

Pups from the Dog Club and horses from Bradford Stables dressed in their holiday best for the occasion including Santa hats and Christmas garland.  

“It is one of the best traditions in Middleboro,” said parade organizer Greg Thomas who added that over 35 groups participated in the event this year. 

“The residents of Middleboro love this parade, it is one of their favorites,” said Germain. “It gets everybody back to that small town feel.”