Santa makes a festive appearance at the Clutha Country Santa Parade in Balclutha on Saturday, accompanied by elves Taylor McPhee (left, 7) and McKayah Faddes (6).
State Highway 1 was closed through the town’s main business district for several hours as a festive market, country fair and the centrepiece parade took place.
Representatives from local Filipino, Chinese and Samoan communities intermingled with traditional and less conventionally themed floats from local schools and community groups.
Parade spokeswoman Christina Johnston said it had been a special day for the district.
‘‘I loved seeing so many people come down, despite the weather.
‘‘The floats were just amazing, so much effort went into them.
‘‘There were heaps of stalls, yummy food on offer and best of all so many happy, smiley kids.’’
The parade had been a ‘‘true community effort’’, she said.
‘‘All the effort from everyone is just so worth it for the community.
‘‘I’d love to see it bigger and better next year, so watch this space.’’
REPORT & PHOTO: RICHARD DAVISON
