-By Phil Orlandella
Hundreds of local residents, families and friends turned out for the traditional
NEAA North End Christmas Parade which saw the arrival of Santa Claus by helicopter at Puopolo Park on Commercial Street.
The 40th annual holiday event made its way through the community spreading seasonal cheers.
Many bands, horse drawn carriages, military units, clowns and characters were part of the parade.
Children not only met the jolly old gent from the North Pole but participated in the parade, received candy and balloons and took photos with Santa and cartoon characters.
The parade route was secured by District A-1 Boston Police under the direction of Captain Bernard O’Rourke and staff.
The parade was dedicated in memory of James “Jimmy” Pallotta.
The Mayor’s Office of Special Events, North End Against Drugs, Nazzaro Community Center, Sen. Anthony Petruccelli, Rep. Aaron Michlewitz and Boston City Councilor Sal LaMattina in part supported and sponsored this popular holiday parade.