Emilee Barbiero has been going to the Home for the Holidays parade since she moved to Westwood, New Jersey, seven years ago. She said every year the town’s annual parade gets better.

“The finale with Santa is the best part,” Barbiero said. “I think it’s a fun way to conclude a parade.”

The actual tradition of Santa’s appearance on a parade vehicle “began in the 1970s when Santa agreed to be transported throughout Westwood’s neighborhoods during a week in December, delivering smiles, candy, and good cheer to the children and residents of Westwood,” according to a recent email from Celebrate Westwood. Celebrate Westwood is a community group that organizes town events.

This year, the parade along Westwood Avenue was held on December 2, 2023. People from nearby towns are invited to participate. Ava Samuels, a fifth grader and a Girl Scout from nearby Emerson, New Jersey, paraded with her troop.

“I have been in the parade so many times, so I’m not really nervous for it anymore, at least not as much as I was the first time. I feel confident before every parade now.”

Samuels loves the feeling of spreading holiday cheer through the joy of the parade.  A good part of her journey through Westwood was walking “because we get to wave to all of the people,” Samuela explained.

The tradition of groups from different towns marching together has lasted a while. According to Celebrate Westwood, “…to date, there are more than 50 organizations participating in the parade … Boys and Girl Scouts, stilt walkers, antique car enthusiasts…”

Hailey Ciavaglia, a third grader from Emerson, said she wouldn’t miss the parade, even if the weather outside is frightful.

“Yeah, we bundle. This year, I had two jackets, and I brought my bag, a hat and gloves, but that’s it.”