Inaugural Christmas Parade in Ocean Springs helps local charities

OCEAN SPRINGS, MS (WLOX) - It’s a city that loves its parades. Ocean Springs residents braved the cold Sunday to see the newest parade in the lineup. The first ever Discover Christmas Parade in Ocean Springs certainly filled the city with the holiday spirit.

"It seems like there are a lot of people that are really excited about it," said Ocean Springs Mayor Shea Dobson.

Along with decorated floats, there were a number of favorite holiday characters on hand, like Buddy the elf and of course Santa and Rudolph.

For parade participants, it’s about having fun for a good cause.

“We’re being crazy, and we’re doing this to give all the kids a great gift for Christmas,” said Patsy Potter Moat.

That’s because along with parading through the streets, participants were collecting unwrapped gifts to donate to a number of different organizations.

“We’re just excited to show our Christmas cheer, and it’s a toy drive so we’re encouraging everyone to bring an unwrapped toy,” Dobson said.

To those bundled up along the parade route, making the event a toy drive was a great idea.

"I think it's a great idea," said Ocean Springs resident Thomas Moore. "Anything to help the less fortunate."

Dobson believed the chilly weather helped build the holiday cheer.

“It’s chilly, but we’re staying warm, and the Christmas cheer is warming our hearts and we’re having fun,” he said.

If you were unable to donate a gift during the parade, a collection location is set up at OS Lumber on Government Street.

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