The annual Salem Christmas Parade rang in the holiday season Thursday evening led by Police Chief J.T. Panezott with Fire Chief Scott Mason and Santa Claus himself bringing up the rear to the cheers of Salem residents young and old. This year’s parade theme was “Christmas in Toyland” and featured city leaders including Mayor Cyndi Baronzzi Dickey and City Service Safety Director Joe Cappuzzello, safety forces including the Salem police, fire and street departments and the Perry Township Fire Department, holiday floats, and iconic characters like the Grinch, Ebenezer Scrooge and Bluey. After the parade the annual Light-Up Night festivities were held at city hall including carols by the Salem High School Choir, the annual city Christmas tree lighting, and visits with Santa Claus for good boys and girls. New this year the lighting ceremony included not just the Christmas tree but the buildings and businesses on Broadway Avenue which were adorned with white Christmas lights. (Photos by Morgan Ahart)