The holidays kicked off with all the trimmings as local Olivia Newton-John presided over the annual Hollywood Christmas Parade. Olivia was bundled up in a set of cozy white sweaters and gloves as she sat in Santa’s sleigh. She delighted the crowd with a few of her favorite melodies like “Xanadu” and “There’s Still My Joy.” But she had lots of backup with fellow local Kenny G. belting out “Let it Snow” and Cyndi Lauper singing “Hard Candy Christmas.” Others in the Pre-Parade All-Star Concert performance included War with “Low Rider” and “Why Can’t We Be Friends” as well as the soulful sounds of Eric Benet singing holiday favorites.
Parade hosts included Erik Estrada, Laura McKenzie, Dean Cain and Montel Williams. The larger-than-life characters in the skies above had careful minders on the ground keeping them in place. Soon, as one marching band turned the corner, you’d spot Dr. Seuss’ The Cat In The Hat (presented by Entertainment Tonight and wrangled by Hollywood Central Park), a gigantic Gumby (wrangled by Make-A-Wish Foundation), Penguins of Madagascar (Wrangled by Civil Air Patrol), Dr. Seuss’ Grinch Santa (sponsored by the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes, wrangled by the American Legion Auxiliary) and many more.
There was plenty of horsing around with the Equestrian Units including Horn Ropers from Bakersfield, Mane Attraction of Riverside, Express Employment Professionals and the Express Clydesdales of Oklahoma City, Okla., and Majestic Acres from Ramona, Calif.
In case you missed all the fun, the live parade was taped for several national broadcasts, the first of which will be on The CW on Friday, Dec. 16, 2016, at 8 p.m. If you’re still recovering from Thanksgiving, Olivia and friends will put you in the spirit! HO! HO! HO!