Hammond’s annual Holiday Parade helped jump-start the holiday season.

A crowd of spectators braved the freezing temperatures on Dec. 6, which didn’t dampen the festive spirit in the air.

Hammond residents Michelle Lee and her son, Elijah, 12, patiently waited for the parade to begin. (Sue Ellen Ross/Post-Tribune)

“We’ve been coming to this parade for more than 20 years,” said Chris Osikaof Crown Point, as she arrived with her husband and three children. “It’s become an important tradition for our
family.”

Her children, 20-year-old triplets Brandon, Allison and Caitlyn, agreed.

All of them are home on holiday break from college, and the parade was high on their to-do list.

“I remember all the years our family came to this event, it was always a lot of fun,” Brandon Osikaof said. “We’re here to continue the tradition.”

A trio of horses ridden by multiple Santa Clauses entertained the crowd. (Sue Ellen Ross/Post-Tribune)

More than 70 entries entertained the crowd.

Local college organizations, high school marching bands and colorful floats appeared between antique cars, community groups, and a live horse performance, as well as other attractions.

Hundreds of spectators joined in the fun along the parade route down Indianapolis Boulevard. Louis Goodman of Hammond had a bird’s-eye view of the procession from her living room window, since she lives along the parade route.

Although she stayed mostly in the warmth of her house, periodically she went on her front lawn to check on family members.

Bishop Noll Institute’s marching band performed during the parade. (Sue Ellen Ross/Post-Tribune)

“I love that we always can count on this parade every year,” she said. “My kids and grandchildren use this day to also come and visit since they live out of town. It’s really a good time.”

Waiting patiently for the parade to begin were Michelle Lee and her son, 12-year-old Elijah.

They attend every year, and Michelle has some fond memories of her own from when she was growing up in Hammond.

“I was in the Hammond High School Marching Band, and we would always perform in the holiday parade,” she said, “I played the trumpet, and it was always fun.”

The Hammond Holiday Parade began in the early 1930s and has grown to include various entertainment and themes to showcase the city’s mission of kicking off the holiday season.

The huge number of repeat attendees each year can attest to the accomplishment of that plan.

The Dones family of Hammond is one of those dedicated to watching each year.

“We’ve been here for more than 20 years,” Jeff Dones said, as his seven children and 11 grandchildren bundled up as the parade began. “No matter what the weather, we’re always here.”

Prior to the start of the parade, dozens of runners joined in the traditional free one-mile Santa Sprint Fun Run.

After the conclusion of the parade, many families continued celebrating the holiday season with activities at the Hammond Sportsplex.

Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/12/15/hammond-holiday-parade-kicks-off-the-holiday-season/