LITTLETON - Littleton's 26th annual Christmas Parade theme "Miracle on Main Street" kicks off the shopping season on Friday, Nov. 23 at noon.

Participation in the parade is free, and all organizations are encouraged to enter. The parade is part of the annual Christmas Celebration produced by the Littleton Area Chamber of Commerce.

"Main Street is looking better than ever, and is full of new businesses as well as favorites that have been around for generations. There's a great time to be had, great food to be served, and unique shops to be shopped," said Chad Stearns, executive director of the chamber. "Downtown Littleton has come a long way over the past few years, and it is very exciting to be able to present it in such an elegant manner."

Children can meet Santa Claus immediately after the parade at the Littleton Opera House. Santa will share Christmas stories with his guests, and will have goodies to hand out to all the boys and girls. Children can have their picture taken with Santa and tell him what they would like for Christmas.

Children will be able to work at different play stations decorating cookies, writing letters to Santa and creating candy cane decorations.

This year's parade is supported by corporate sponsor the Littleton Coin Company and supporting sponsors the Littleton Diner, C & S Auto & Truck Parts, Morrison Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Care, Casella, Littleton Chevrolet and Crosstown Motors.

The Littleton Area Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization that strives to work with both members and the community on social and economic development.

For more information, contact the Littleton Area Chamber of Commerce at 444-6561 or log on to littletonareachamber.com.