Chilly temperatures didn’t dampen the holiday spirit on the University of Florida campus Tuesday morning, as UF Facilities Services hosted its sixth annual Children’s Christmas Parade.  

The roughly one-hour event kicked off just before 9 a.m. and was put on by UF Facilities Services, with support from partners like the University of Florida Police Department (UFPD), UF Transportation and Parking Services, UF/IFAS, UF Health Shands and many others. 

Departing from the Condron Ballpark parking lot, holiday-decorated vehicles, machinery, ATVs and people took to the streets to spread holiday cheer and smiles throughout the UF campus. 

As the parade made its way through campus, there were stops at both UF Baby Gator locations and Turlington Plaza, where children had a chance to take in the parade and festivities.  

“We are proud to bring the magic of the season to life for our community’s youngest members and create a joyful experience that will be cherished for years to come,” Gregg Clarke, senior director of operations for UF Facilities Services, said in a press release. 

Bundled up in jackets and hats, younger gators at Baby Gator of Lake Alice filled the sidewalks on both sides of Museum Road. The children were greeted by music, waves and honks from parade participants. The excitement level went up a notch when Santa rounded the corner in his red sleigh.  

Other spectators gathered out front of Fifield Hall to catch the parade as it made the turn onto Hull Road. Parade-goers shouted, jumped and waved to participants as the parade made a left turn on the backside of Condron Park, where it ultimately concluded.  

Nick Anschultz is a Report for America corps member and writes about education for Mainstreet Daily News. This position is supported by local donations through the Community Catalyst for Local Journalism Fund at the Community Foundation of North Central Florida.