A float carrying parade participants slowly makes its way through Main Street. 

The Christmas spirit was alive and well in downtown New Iberia Saturday as the city celebrated its annual New Iberia Christmas parade.

Both sides of Main Street were absolutely packed with people while pageant winners, dance teams and floats carrying familiar characters slowly made their way through the corridor.

The annual parade is put on by the Bayou Traditions organization to celebrate the holiday season, and is one of the most well-attended parades of the year.

Beads, candy and other throws were tossed out by royalty winners riding on vehicles as well as parade participants riding on floats for eager children to pick up or catch during the event as well.

Of course, a special visit from Santa Claus as well as other familiar characters were part of the New Iberia Christmas Parade as well.