Tulsa Christmas Parade, Parade of Lights Evoke Holiday Spirit

Tulsans had their choice of two parades Saturday evening that started at the exact same time.

The annual "Holiday Parade of Lights" was downtown and the first ever "Tulsa Christmas Parade" was at Tulsa Hills shopping center.

The annual "Holiday Parade of Lights" streams through downtown Tulsa, and everyone has their favorite part.

"The lights mostly. I like the light parade. You get to see some colorful lights and what not. And my children love it," Brad Avedon said.

The weather was just right for a December parade. For the first time, Tulsa's Jewish and Muslim communities participated, mixed in with drummers, and giant snowmen as the crowds cheered.

"This is our first time. Usually we are up at the Bartlesville parade. Normally we don't have time to make it down here, but we made time this year," Billy Johnson said.

Of course, Terry Hood, Scott Thompson and the News On Six family all say hello!

The first ever "Tulsa Christmas Parade" kicked off at the Tulsa Hills shopping center, and a lot of people showed up.

"Just to see the lights and enjoy some fun time, take my niece out to the parade and show her the lights," Danielle Lenard said.

News On Six anchors Craig Day and Lori Fullbright bundled up for the ride, alongside cheerleaders, classic cars and other highlights.

"People singing because they were talking about Christmas and how great it was and it was pretty fun to watch," Chloe Tunnell said.

The Tulsa Christmas Parade coordinator says this parade was formed to put "Christmas" back in the title of a Tulsa parade. That made a difference to some people.

"Because it was the Christmas parade and not just the holiday parade," Karla White said.

The parades had a little something for everyone, from beauty queens to barn animals.

"I like how creative everyone got to entertain us," Brody Tunnell said.

The organizers of the Tulsa Christmas Parade are very pleased with the turnout and they are considering making this an annual event.

11/1/11 Related Story: Group To Hold Competing Parade In Tulsa After 'Christmas' Controversy