Aila Boyd
aboyd@mainstreetnewspapers.com
Snow and freezing temperatures didn’t stop Salem from kicking off the holidays Friday night as the annual Salem Christmas Parade made its way through the city. Crowds lined the streets to watch a festive lineup that included the Andrew Lewis Middle School band, the Pride of Salem Marching Band and the Roanoke College band. The city’s tree lighting added to the celebration, and Miss Virginia made a special appearance. The parade was sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Salem.
The holiday spirit carried into the weekend as hundreds filled the Salem Farmers Market on Saturday for the annual Crafty Christmas event. Shoppers browsed dozens of booths featuring handmade gifts, seasonal décor, baked goods and other unique items from local vendors.
The market will remain open the next two Saturdays, Dec. 13 and 20.
