WATCH NOW: Marion's Christmas parade returns

After a hiatus last year because of the COVID pandemic, the Marion Christmas parade came back Sunday and many attendees said it was the best ever. Downtown Marion was crowded with young and old alike as they watched the holiday procession down Main Street. McDowell Emergency Services Director William Kehler was the parade marshal. For more than 20 years, Kehler has been a pivotal part of McDowell County Emergency Services. He was accompanied by other EMS personnel who have been on the front lines of the pandemic in McDowell. Numerous businesses, churches, civic organizations and non-profit groups took part in the procession. The McDowell High marching band was one of the highlights. Of course, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus were the guests of honor at the parade’s conclusion.