CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION – The Weirton community will welcome Santa Claus and others, Nov. 25, as the Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce presents the Weirton Christmas Parade, featuring a theme of “Candyland Christmas.” — Craig Howell

WEIRTON — The Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce is hoping to make Christmas a little sweeter this year.

The Weirton Christmas Parade, organized by the chamber, is scheduled for 6 p.m. Saturday, and will feature a theme of “Candyland Christmas.”

Sponsored by West Virginia Northern Community College and Nick’s Auto, the parade will feature some of the traditional images of the holiday season, along with a mix of gumdrops, lollipops and other treats.

“There will be Candyland characters in the parade, and we have several entries that are embracing the theme,” Chamber President Brenda Mull said.

The grand marshals are the three Weirton nominees in WV Living magazine’s Best of the Best contest: Sweet Temptations, Best You Boutique and the city of Weirton.

Mull explained the idea for this year’s theme came from Emily Byers, marketing representative from Apollo Professional Cleaning and Restoration, who is a member of the chamber’s special projects committee and a chamber ambassador.

“It went from there,” she said.

Residents will have an opportunity to step into the world of sweet treats themselves, with a “selfie station” available for pictures.

“It will be by the community center,” explained Stephanie O’Brien, chamber member services and programs coordinator.

Stepping off from Virginia Avenue, the parade will follow a route along Main Street to Marland Heights Road, with a collection of floats, bands, dance schools and more. Fireworks will help to cap off the night, with a show to be set off behind Municipal Plaza.

“Santa will definitely be on hand, and fireworks will welcome him to Candyland,” Mull said.