Sen. Nikki Setzler was the Grand Marshal for the Cayce-West Columbia Parade of Lights, Saturday. He was impressed with what he saw.

“I thought it was a tremendous crowd and that everyone was in a holiday spirit,” Setzler said. “It was a reflection of the incredible community we live in.”

West Columbia Mayor Tem Miles agreed. “It was a huge crowd,” Miles said, “the biggest I’ve ever seen. It really was magical.”

How many people came to see the parade?

“Those who were on the floats said the crowd was bigger this year than last year, and last year was estimated at 21,000,” said Chamber President and CEO Tim James. James also said the “Love Local” shopping shuttle, that visited area businesses hours before the parade, was a success, too.

“Parade Day and the Holiday Parade of Lights was a huge success,” James said. “Throughout the day the shuttle transported merchants to various businesses in our community. Santa and family rode the shuttle to visit many sites. Santa took photos at Café Strudel, and well as Steel Hands Brewery. At 5:30 as the sun was setting, Twelfth Street came alive with the magic of Christmas, as over 200 parade units, all adorned in lights, lit up the night. It was a day that everyone “loved local” and included many who traveled in to spend time enjoying the many fun options our community offers; including dining, shopping and exploring the Riverwalk. Many thanks to our participants, and the many volunteers who worked hard to make the magic happen.”

Photos: Shuttle; Lexington Medical (Presenting Sponsor); Café Strudel (Casi); Steel Hands Brewery; D’s Wings (military); West Columbia, Cayce, Lexington and Richland Law Enforcement leaders; Santa and Mrs. Claus at Café Strudel.