Thousands made their way into downtown Butler on Saturday to officially welcome the Christmas season.
The day began with several free activities throughout the city, including a synthetic ice skating rink, a life-sized Candyland game and activities in the New Castle Street Plaza.
The day culminated with the annual Spirit of Christmas parade on Main Street. Residents came downtown to enjoy the nighttime parade, which marked the 53rd consecutive year for a Christmas parade in Butler.
Saturday was also Small Business Saturday, which celebrated locally owned businesses both in the city and throughout the county.
Several floats in the parade were awarded prizes.
Non-profit category:
-Best Overall: Butler Musical Theater Guild ($300 Prize)
-Most Original: Cub Scout Pack 482 ($200 Prize)
-Best Use of Lights: I’m A Star Club ($100)
Commercial category:
-Best Overall: Peoples Gas ($150 prize and $150 prize for a charity of their choice)
-Most Original: Northwood Realty ($100 prize and $100 prize for a charity of their choice)
-Best Use of Lights: Butler County Ford ($50 prize and $50 prize for a charity of their choice)
Open category:
-Best Overall: Homeless Cats of Butler ($100 prize)
