A Cowboy Santa, smiling cloggers, and lots and lots of candy, beads and even stuffed bears were part of the Christmas celebrations taking place last Saturday in south Butler County.

In spite of the wintry chill of Saturday morning, folks bundled up and braved the cold in McKenzie Saturday morning to enjoy the annual parade. ROTC cadets and the band from Hillcrest Evergreen brought music and marching in time to the event. McKenzie’s parade also featured several floats and entries from local businesses, churches and organizations, along with handsome horses and old Saint Nick.

At the same time the parade was passing by in McKenzie, the ladies of the Three Arts Club of Georgiana and Chapman were kicking off their Holiday Bazaar, newly located at the Georgiana Community House.

“We’ve been busy and sold lots of things,” said member Becky Manning. Guests took home homemade cakes, pies, quick bread and candies, along with hand-painted ornaments and unique wreaths and stockings while little ones enjoyed visiting with Santa.

Crowds were assembling well before 2 p.m. to get a good spot for the Georgiana Christmas Parade, which kicked off under clear, if cool, skies.

The Hank Williams Fan Club float, a first for the organization, featured Santa sporting a cowboy hat, Mrs. Claus and a pair of Santa’s helpers. The float appeared in both south Butler County parades, giving out hundreds of stuffed animals to children along the parade route.

The Persimmon Creek Cloggers didn’t miss a beat as they danced in their festive red and green the entire route.

The celebratory mood continued at the Hank Williams Fan Club House where the house was decked out in true holiday style.

Country Christmas tunes filled the air while visitors enjoyed punch and holiday treats.