Twas the day before Christmas
In Columbia Parade
Lots of creatures were stirring
In their haste for the day

Still lots to be done
So much work still to be
For this annual event
The Chamber sponsors, with glee

The Grand Marshals were chosen
WWII vets it would be
And tracking them down
Was the task just for me

While other preparations
Were busily done
For to pull this day off
Takes an army - not just one

And earlier that day
The town square was a buzz
With shoppers and people
Ye Olde Shoppes was the hub

And the Holloway Center
With children was filled
For Christmas activities
And Santa was a thrill

"On Debbie, On Brenda, On Roger and Chris
On Kerry, On Kim, On Ann and the rest
To the Square, to the route
To line them all up
The floats and the horses
And the sirens that blast
The tinsel, the trappings
This Christmas will last"

And so it did happen
For the 24th time
And Christmas in Columbia
Was truly sublime.