Downtown Powell was set aglow Saturday night with thousands of twinkling lights during the annual lighted parade, part of the ChristmasFest festivities.

“The lighted parade was such a huge success this year — we had 2,502 attendees,” said Rebekah Burns, executive director of the Powell Economic Partnership.

She said that’s the most attendees since PEP started counting for the event. 

The parade drew 28 floats, with first place awarded to Ryno Performance/Northwest Wyoming Off Highway Vehicle Alliance. They won $100 in Powell Bucks as the top prize.

Aldrich’s (VG Enterprises) was awarded second place and $50 in Powell Bucks, while third place went to Little Skunk/Rusty Skunk, which received $25 in Powell Bucks.

Serving as the grand judge this year was Powell Mayor John Wetzel, accompanied by City Administrator Zack Thorington, Parks Superintendent Tim Miller and Police Dispatcher Lisa Baker. 

“The City of Powell does a great job decorating and the police make sure that we are safe,” Burns said. “PEP wanted to honor them by inviting the city to be the first panel of judges for the lighted parade.”

Each float was judged on the general appearance, how they fit the theme of ChristmasFest, originality, quality of work, creativity, as well as how they attracted and held attention.

The ChristmasFest weekend culminated with Saturday night’s parade. Other events at Plaza Diane included the lighting of the Enchanted Forest, a vintage camper tour, cocoa and caroling, live entertainment and visits with Santa Claus, as well as holiday crafts for kids at The Commons.

“It is a team effort to make Powell a place to spend the holidays!” Burns said.

— Tessa Baker