Parade Weekend Lights Up Michigan City and Chesterton
Northwest Indiana kicked off the holiday season in full color this past weekend as Michigan City and Chesterton hosted their annual parades. TEAM WAS LIVE at both parades. With fresh snow on the ground, glowing lights on every corner, and crowds filling the sidewalks, both communities created a festive backdrop worthy of the season.
Michigan City Parade: Tradition, Honor & Holiday Cheer
Michigan City’s parade marched proudly through a cold but lively downtown, beginning with a powerful tribute:
A Dignified Start
The parade opened with a color guard marching in perfect formation, carrying the American flag and the Marine Corps flag. Their crisp uniforms and disciplined steps reminded the crowd of the service members who protect our freedom each day. The lights from the city reflected off the flags as residents stood and applauded in respect.
A Fire Truck With a Feathered Twist
Moments later, the crowd erupted with laughter as a bright yellow costumed mascot waved from the top of Michigan City’s Ladder 1 fire engine. The truck rolled slowly down the street, lights flashing, wreaths and garland wrapped across its front bumper. Kids cheered, pointed, and ran to the curb for a better view of the unexpected guest riding high above the cab.
Santa Arrives in Style
Michigan City’s parade reached peak holiday magic when Santa Claus appeared on a beautifully lit float featuring glowing reindeer and a towering spiral Christmas tree of multicolored lights. Santa waved from his sleigh, greeting children who shouted his name while parents snapped photos of a picture-perfect moment. The vibrant blue and red lights around the float lit up the night as holiday music echoed between the buildings.
Chesterton Parade: Small-Town Warmth and Classic Holiday Energy
The following day, Chesterton celebrated with its own impressive display of community cheer. Crowds lined both sides of Broadway to watch classic cars, community organizations, school groups, dance teams, and local businesses parade through downtown.
Chesterton’s parade brought its trademark hometown charm, with plenty of handmade floats, beaming kids tossing candy, and families bundled up in blankets and winter hats. The Chesterton High School Trojan Guard delivered a standout performance as the scent of hot cocoa drifted through the air.
Santa made a second appearance for the weekend, closing out the Chesterton parade to another round of cheers as families finalized their Christmas lists and the holiday season officially began.
A Weekend to Remember
From Michigan City’s spirited downtown procession to Chesterton’s cozy community celebration, the Region lit up with pride, tradition, and holiday magic. Both towns delivered unforgettable moments—whether it was the honor of the color guard, the humor of a giant yellow mascot atop a fire truck, or the warmth of Santa waving beneath glowing lights.
As the parades wrapped up and the crowds wandered home, one thing was clear: Northwest Indiana is ready for the season, and the spirit of community is stronger than ever. Check WIMS FACEBOOK page for the LIVE FEEDS and Pictures from weekend events. #wims #nwi #localradio