Scouts push shopping carts along the parade route during the Fourth Annual Mesquite Parade of Lights on Dec. 5. The annual event is a fundraising effort for both the Salvation Army and the Virgin Valley Food Bank. Photo by Teri Nehrenz

Mesquite’s Fourth Annual Parade of Lights was held on Dec. 5. The chilly weather didn’t seem to deter one Mesquite resident; Mesquite Blvd. was as packed as you’ll ever see it for a parade.

This annual fundraising effort is for both the Salvation Army and the Virgin Valley Food Bank. Entrants into the parade collect a large amount of non-perishable food items to donate as their entrance fee.

Humans weren’t the only ones to participate. This beautiful pair of equines was more than happy to pull a sleigh on wheels full of children during the Fourth Annual Mesquite Parade of Lights. Photo by Teri Nehrenz

On the night of the parade the boy and girl scouts push shopping carts along the street so spectators who enjoy the parade can also donate if they choose.

The Mesquite Police Department loves to participate in this annual activity and so far has taken the trophy for collecting the most food for the event.

Last year, thanks to generous donations from local community members and local businesses, the Mesquite Police Department was able to win the canned food contest by collecting thousands of pounds of canned food! This year was even better than the last.

Bringing up the rear of the Mesquite Parade of Lights are the two Jolly folks everyone wants to see. Santa and Ms. Clause are escorted each year by the Mesquite Fire Department and accompanied by Mesquite Mayor Al Litman.

The results aren’t in yet but they are expected to be announced at a future City Council Meeting.