Observers say Light Up Siesta marked its largest crowd ever
Marking its 35th year, the annual Light Up Siesta Key event, held on Nov. 30, drew what observers believe was its largest crowd ever.
Attendees arrived early to secure the best curbside spots from which to watch the Village Holiday Parade. Musical entertainment and a demonstration by students of the Red Tiger Martial Artsschool were among the added features of the festivities, which officially kicked off the holiday season on Siesta Key.
People of all ages made up the spectators, who welcomed Santa Claus as he arrived by boat — albeit a vehicle-drawn vessel. Santa then settled in at Siesta Center, where he listened to children’s wishes for holiday gifts.
The parade itself offered a wide array of entries, including an assortment of vehicles adorned for the season.
Light Up Siesta is sponsored by merchants, businesses and friends of Siesta Key.
Island resident Peter van Roekens graciously shared these scenes with The Sarasota News Leader.