ROCKLAND — Following November 30’s Parade of Lights in Rockland, three well-behaved green characters may find themselves on Santa’s ‘nice’ list – at least for a moment or two.

Such a list would also include a clear, star-studded sky, a receptive crowd, and a smoothly-run event. 

As with previous years, Saturday evening’s 25-degree crisp temperatures weren’t enough to keep well-clad young fans from inching forward at the sight of a red belly and shouting his name in surprise and elation.

The annual Festival of Lights celebration in downtown Rockland began with the welcoming of Santa, who arrived via U.S. Coast Guard vessel at noon, Nov. 29.

The annual Parade Of Lights began Saturday at 6 p.m.m with floats sponsored by participating businesses, neighborhoods and organizations gathering at the public landing beforehand. 

The parade started at the Public Landing, head north on Main Street, turn around in the ferry terminal parking lot, then return to Main Street heading south. The lead sponsor for the Festival of Lights parade was First National Bank.

On Sunday, Dec. 1, families will have an opportunity to have Breakfast With Santa, from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., at Eclipse Restaurant at 2 Park Drive. Breakfast is $2 for children and $5 for adults. The breakfast is sponsored by Bixby & Co., who will also be providing hot drinking chocolate, and co-sponsored by Rockland Café.

This year’s major sponsor for Festival of Lights is the Island Institute.

Rockland Main Street, Inc., is a downtown advocacy organization that focuses on historic preservation of, and economic development in the downtown district. Rockland Main Street, Inc., produces the Festival Of Lights weekend events and the annual Summer Solstice Celebration Street Party and Dock Party.