PERRIS, Calif. — The City of Perris’ 30th annual Christmas parade drew a broad cross-section of the community on Sunday, with more than 90 entries including school bands, veterans groups, city departments and local nonprofit floats.

"We've got a little over 90 parade entries today," said the parade emcee Steven, the city’s public information officer, as the procession began. Mayor Michael Vargas and First Lady Julie Vargas rode in the parade and the mayor offered holiday wishes to residents, saying, "I wanna wish everybody a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year," and urging health and prosperity for the community.

The parade opened with a ceremonial flyover and an invocation led by retired U.S. Navy chaplain Quinn Holly, followed by the presentation of colors by American Legion and veterans riders and a CAL FIRE unit carrying a large American flag. City departments were well represented: Municipal Enforcement Services, led by Director Robert Trejo, marched with staff and vehicles and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and Explorer units participated as well.

Local schools provided much of the entertainment. March Middle School, Paris High School and numerous local elementary and high school bands performed along the route, joined by cadet corps and JROTC units. Youth teams and community organizations — including the Love for Life Association, the Rotary Club of Perris, cheer squads and Folklorico dance troupes — marched or rode in decorated vehicles and floats.

Santa Claus appeared amid a playful Grinch sketch that drew laughter from the crowd. Residents, elected officials and parade emcees traded lighthearted commentary on holiday food traditions — tamales, pozole and menudo — a recurring informal thread during the broadcast.

City Manager Clara Maramontes and members of the city’s executive team rode bicycles in the parade, while planning commissioners and council members Maricela Nava, Malcolm Corona and Elizabeth Vallejo were introduced as they passed the broadcast stage. School and college leaders also rode in classic cars or marching ensembles; several trustees and college presidents extended holiday greetings.

Organizers thanked volunteers, judges and city staff for supporting the event and said judging for parade awards would begin shortly at the broadcast booth. "Thank you to our city staff who helped put this on," the emcee said. "We will see you all in 2026."