Austin Thompson, of Greenup County, Ky., and Hailee Koster, of Ironton, both knew that in the Ironton Christmas Parade, the best is saved for last.

And the last man in the holiday procession was who they came expressly to see.

“I want to see Santa Claus,” young Austin said.

“I like the last part, Santa Claus,” Hailee echoed.

And neither were disappointed. Santa, perched atop a snazzy red Thunderbird, waved to both kids as he made his way down Second Street.

While the jolly fat man was the grand finale, there was lots to savor while waiting for him.

The Ironton High School Marching Band flag corps gave up their flags for the evening and twirled bright red and white candy canes instead.

The truck that was part of the Cyndi’s Studio group bore a sign that read “Jesus is the reason for the season.”

It was the first appearance for the Relay for Life organization. Its float had a Santa and a large purple gift box. A purple Christmas tree stood next to the box.

The little ladies of the Rock Hill Daisy girl scout troop relied on sound to make their presence known. The young ladies carried jingle bells.

Among the new groups in the lineup this year were four-footed participants: the local Buckeye Dock Dog organization came complete with canines. The Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital delegation included Bu-ee, the bassett hound that sported a coat to guard against the cold.

The parade was sponsored by the Ironton Lions Club.

Attention now turns to Coal Grove. The village Christmas parade will be 6 p.m. Thursday, along with the official lighting of Paul Porter Park.