By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Dec 2: Kuching City was infused with a heartwarming atmosphere last night as a procession of beautifully adorned floats featuring Santa Claus, angels, Christmas trees, candy canes, a colossal heart, wreaths, tinsels, and live bands performing Christmas tunes paraded through the streets.
An enthusiastic crowd of over 5,000 participated in the vibrant spectacle which radiated love, peace, and joy throughout the city.
In a dazzling display of holiday spirit, the annual Kuching City Christmas Parade this year unfolded with a burst of colour and cheer, covering an impressive four-kilometer route, winding its way from Jubilee Ground to Jalan Padungan, Lebuh Temple, Lebuh Wayang, Jalan Tabuan, Jalan Ban Hock, and finally returning to Jubilee Ground.
Leading this festive procession were six Boys and Girls Brigade music bands, their lively melodies setting the tone for an enchanting evening.
The event commenced with a praise and worship session led by the Catholic Archbishop of Kuching Archdiocese, Simon Poh.
The crowd, wrapped in the holiday spirit, sung along in the mesmerising Christmas carols that filled the air with melodic joy.
Parade participants, dressed in elaborate costumes depicting biblical characters, brought the nativity story to life. Joseph, Mary, angels, shepherds, and the Wise Men from the East paraded through the streets, symbolising the journey to visit the newborn Jesus Christ on the first day of Christmas.
Adding to the festive spirit of giving, participants along the route generously distributed Christmas gifts, spreading happiness and goodwill among the onlookers. The spirit of giving illuminated the night, as the parade became a vibrant celebration of community, faith, and the universal values of love and compassion.
Families lined the streets, children’s eyes wide with wonder, as the floats passed by, each a testament to the creativity and dedication of the Kuching Christian churches and participants.
The blend of tradition and contemporary celebration in this annual Christmas parade transformed Kuching City into a magical wonderland, where the beauty of the season was shared by all.
The Kuching City Christmas parade had once again succeeded in bringing people together, fostering a sense of community, and spreading the message of love and peace that defines the holiday season. — DayakDaily
