Cross County Shopping Center Hosts Holiday Spectacular Parade

From Thompson and Bender: Cross County Shopping Center, an iconic Yonkers destination for holiday shopping and entertainment, officially kicked off the 2016 season with a community parade, tree lighting and live concert with the New York City Swing Band on Saturday, November 19.

Area residents were invited to be front and center as nearly one thousand people marched in the 2016 Holiday Spectacular Parade, followed by the lighting of the shopping center’s 40-foot Christmas tree, which showcased more than 70,000 sparkling lights and ornaments. Strolling costumed characters, stilt walkers and live music added to the night’s festivities.

“This time of year families are always looking for activities that will bring about the holiday spirit and cheer,” said Liz Pollack, Senior Marketing Manager at Cross County Shopping Center. “We were so proud to be able to bring back the Holiday Spectacular Parade and Tree Lighting so shoppers can enjoy memorable experiences together, while also thinking about shopping for their holiday gift lists!”

Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano, News 12 Anchor Tara Rosenblum and other city officials cut the ribbon to begin the parade. Marchers in the parade included local Girl Scout Troops, baton twirlers and community dancers, Irish step dancers, as well as local schools, sports teams, businesses and community organizations. In addition, a trackless fire engine, Choo-Choo train and an array of beautifully decorated floats including one by Casale Landscaping, a sponsor of the event, were seen along the parade route.

From the North Pole to the City of Yonkers, Santa made his grand entrance at the end of the Parade in a beautiful, vintage horse and carriage, and then was available for photos and visits with children throughout the night. Santa visits run through Christmas Eve on December 24. Shoppers can make reservations by visiting here. An Early Bird Special is available for families through December 8.

For more information, visit here.

Images via Thompson and Bender: (Photo 1) Cross County Shopping Center held its 2nd Annual Holiday Spectacular Parade on November 19.

(Photo 2) Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano (center) joined with Yonkers Council President Liam McLaughlin (third from left); Carl Calabro, senior property manager, Cross County Shopping Center; Jag Shah, chief financial officer, Marx Realty & Improvement Co., Inc.; Yonkers Councilman Michael Sabatino; News12 Westchester Reporter and Anchor Tara Rosenblum, as well as family members to cut the ribbon to start Cross County Shopping Center’s 2nd Annual Holiday Spectacular Parade.

(Photo 3) A float at Cross County Shopping Center’s 2nd Annual Holiday Spectacular Parade.

(Photo 4) Festive characters and a Choo-Choo train were part of Cross County Shopping Center’s 2nd Annual Holiday Spectacular Parade.

(Photo 5) The Christmas tree lighting at Cross County Shopping Center’s 2nd Annual Holiday Spectacular Celebration.