Best holiday parades

RALEIGH, N.C. — Christmas is coming and that means the sound of marching bands in many communities across the Triangle. If you love a parade, here are some of the best to keep you entertained in the coming weeks.

The big dog (at least in North Carolina) is the Raleigh Christmas Parade, now in its 73nd year in the City of Oaks. Raleigh's parade ranks as the largest between Washington, D.C., and Atlanta. It's got floats, balloons, tens of thousands of spectators and a live television broadcast for those who don't want to brave the cold. It's also one of the earliest parades, held annually on the Saturday BEFORE Thanksgiving.

Apex bills itself as the Peak of Good Living, and this little town knows how to pull off a community event. A decked-out Salem Street sparkles during this evening parade (Dec. 2 at 5 p.m.), which serves as the centerpiece of a weekend of events that includes carriage rides and mingling with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Wake Forest residents wait among the longest for their parade. By 1 p.m. on Dec. 9 when the parade rolls down White Street, early birds will have the gifts bought and wrapped and be able to relax and enjoy the spirit of the season.

Lovers of holiday lights will feel right at home in Wendell, which allow visitors to become the parade. Wendell Wonderland, a nightly choreographed show of lights and music, begins Dec. 5 and runs through New Year's Eve. Visit Santa, ride the trolley and enjoy hot chocolate as you tour lights from the former Lake Myra display.

A more intimate experience for the family is available in Garner, where the Dec. 2 parade includes marching bands, floats, classic cars, Santa Claus strutting down Main Street.