Snow and freezing temperatures couldn’t stop Warren residents and visitors from enjoying the city’s annual Downtown Holiday Walk and Christmas Parade.  

This year’s parade featured Piper VanOrd, owner of Allegheny Outfitters, as Grand Marshal. VanOrd expressed her excitement in leading the event, saying, “It’s an honor to be part of this event. Warren is such a great community, and this parade has always made me feel like a little kid, so it's really special to lead it with all of these characters and the W.A.C.K.O kazoo group."  

The event, hosted by the Warren County Chamber of Business and Industry, gave local businesses and restaurants a chance to shine with special sales and deals.

Families enjoyed activities throughout the evening including McKissock’s Learning Center, who hosted their beloved “Warren’s Whoville,” where guests were greeted by The Grinch and the Whoville Mayor.  

Across town the American Legion Post 135 debuted a new holiday tradition by lighting their inaugural Patriotic Tree. Commander Doug Scholar spoke about the significance of the tree, calling it “a symbol of America, patriotism, and service." 

"We at American Legion Post 135 dedicated this tree tonight to all of the veterans and their families in Warren County," explained Scholar. "Warren has one of the highest populations of veterans so this is very special for us." 

The evening concluded with Santa Claus and VanOrd lighting the City of Warren’s Christmas Tree at The Point, officially kicking off the holiday season.  

From longstanding traditions to new highlights, the night proved that cold hands couldn’t stop warm hearts from celebrating the season together.