Plano’s Rockin’ Christmas event makes holiday brighter for those in need

PLANO – The Plano Rockin’ Christmas Parade produced plenty of spirit and good cheer as a huge crowd turned out to view a motorcade, tree lighting and other events.

The Dec. 3 event also produced donations to the Holiday Dinners Fund that will translate into a brighter Christmas for those in need.

Plano Area Chamber of Commerce Director Deana Lanham said more than 300 Holiday Gift Cards are being provided to families in the area as a result.

The parade featured a wide variety of decorated vehicles and each paid an entry fee which helped provide money for the dinner fund.

In addition, sponsors donated either $20 for a card to feed a family of four or $30 to provide dinner for a family of six.

The donations were accepted at Plano restaurants, professional offices, retail stores, banks and churches all over the community.

The focal point of the Christmas parade was the Plano Train Depot on Main Street in the heart of the downtown.

There were cars, full-size trucks, jeeps, pick-ups pulling trailers, fire engines, antique automobiles and even a school bus, all decked out with dazzling light displays.

Businesses and community organizations featured prominently in the parade, along with a visit from Santa Claus driving a vintage automobile.

After the parade passed, there were musical performances from students at Plano Middle School and Emily Johns School.

Mayor Mike Rennels presided over the tree lighting ceremony.

Then there was the presentation of the Ross Greiter Spirit Award. The 2020 winner was Kathy Benoit, while the 2021 honoree is Denel Whitmer. The presentation of the 2020 award had been delayed because of the pandemic.

The chamber honored the Xtreme Team landscaping business with the trophy for the Rockin’ Christmas Window Decorating Contest.

Lanham presented the award to Xtreme Team owners Nick and Brandie Fanning.