The Stockton Civic Club reactivated the annual Stockton Christmas Parade on Saturday after many years of inactivity as a gesture of community unity, according to Ruth Sherrell, one of the organizers.

“Stockton is a close-knit, family-oriented community,” Sherrell said. “The parade seemed like a way to get the community together and say thanks.

“We are already planning a parade for next year and we hope it will grow.”

Various floats lined up at Old Schoolyard Park on U.S. 59 and proceeded to May Tower Road, then Old Stage Road.

The parade disbanded at Stockton Presbyterian Church where hot chocolate and cookies were waiting for parade spectators.

The club also will participate in the Christmas on the River boat parade at Lower Bryant Landing on Dec. 22

Bluegrass bands will begin playing at 4 p.m., followed by the river parade at 5:30 p.m. Boaters should register with Joyce Overstreet at Stagecoach Cafe or with Dianne Matthews at Pepsi Cola.

There will be a $2 parking fee, with proceeds going to the Stockton Civic Club. Monies are designated for community improvement projects. An ongoing project has been the development of the community park on U.S. 59.

Work will begin this month to construct softball and soccer fields at the site, Sherrell said.