The North End Christmas Parade in Boston had been going on for almost half a century. It’s a holiday tradition that spreads a lot of joy, not least because Santa arrives by helicopter! This year, the parade was in jeopardy. Thankfully, the community pulled together an event uniting the annual toy drive with a shortened parade. And, yes, Santa still came by chopper.
If this Christmastime celebration makes you nostalgic, you’ll want to check out these 14 vintage photos of the festivities. Snapped during the 1974 North End Christmas Parade, they show that although fashions and car styles change over time, neighborhood spirit has always been alive and well in the North End.
1. Rudolph's great, but it's probably easier to land a helicopter than find street parking for reindeer in the North End!
2. Santa transfers to a car for the actual parade. His passengers included elves - all adorable, but one looks somewhat unimpressed.
3. The North End Athletic Association (NEAA) hosts the parade. It features all the classic elements you need for a day of fun.
Music? Check.
4. Marching band? Check.
5. And we're off!
6. Many elements of the parade remain unchanged, but the cars root this event firmly in 1970s.
7. Can you spot the Christmas lights? They're simple, but pretty.
8. The parade in full swing.
9. All of the participants look quite disciplined.
10. Well, almost all of them. Donald Duck does his own thing!
11. Spectators taking in the sights and sounds of the festivities.
12. Locals - human and canine alike - enjoying the spectacle from the warmth of their homes.
13. Aha! Here are the reindeer.
14. We couldn't have said it any better.
What are your favorite memories of the North End Christmas Parade? Let us know in the comments or on the Only In Boston Facebook Page.
If you love vintage photos of Boston as much as we do, feast your eyes on our article: 10 Then And Now Photos In Boston That Show Just How Much It Has Changed.
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