Richmond Fire Department took home both the Judge’s Dalmatian Cup and the People’s Choice Award at the Lighted Fire Truck + First Responder’s Parade on Saturday, Nov. 23. Richmond decided to donate its $300 winning prize back to Boothbay Region Fire Auxiliary. 

The rain that had been spluttering throughout the day paused for the parade, which started at Boothbay Fire Department and swung through St. Andrews Village and downtown Boothbay Harbor. In past years, the parade was limited to the fire trucks, but this year saw the addition of police and EMS from across the region. Participating towns included Southport, Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Damariscotta, Wiscasset, Nobleboro, Richmond and Bristol. 

Creativity was on full display with reindeer-drawn fire trucks, hunters showing off their lawn decor bounties, and Santa and Mrs. Claus waving to the crowd through it all. The grinch also made a couple of appearances: Once, speeding down the highway in an open-air vehicle, and the other in the back of a Boothbay Harbor police car! 

Next up is the parade’s sister event, the Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks, on Dec. 7, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Richmond Fire Department’s win also secured the department a place as one of the judges of the boat parade.