Taylorsville, nestled in the arms of Indian Valley at the base of Mount Hough, is the quintessential small town. According to the 2022 census, its population comes in at a sparse 27. Locals are quick to argue that the numbers are actually quite a bit higher, in the low hundreds range. Whatever its size, Taylorsville is huge on heart and holiday spirit.
That spirit was at its colorful best on Saturday, Nov. 30, when the town held its 25th annual Taylorsville Christmas Light Parade. Crowds of revelers lined the downtown street, bundled up in winter coats and hats. Children of all ages darted around legs waving glow sticks, while adults sipped hot toddies and cups of spiked hot chocolate, purchased from the Taylorsville Tavern for $7 apiece. For kiddos and those who preferred their hot chocolate sans spike, non-alcoholic versions were available.
Those in search of a warm and filling meal found one in the meeting room at the back of the Taylorsville Tavern, where the Wolf Creek 4-H club was serving up chili, salad and cornbread for $10 a plate. Their Chili Dinner has been an annual event for going on 20 years — one that the residents of Indian Valley look forward to when the weather turns cold. As 4-H community co-leader Sierra Washington said, “It has become a tradition for many families to come get their bowl of chili and enjoy the Light Parade.”
The money the organization raises during the Light Parade helps fund numerous projects for 4-H kids throughout the year. This past Saturday, they served close to 100 meals, Washington said.
Down the block from the tavern, Santa Claus was on hand to visit with children and listen to Christmas wishes, inspiring smiles and excitement. Santa, who goes by the name Greg Walsh in his everyday life, explained that while this was his first time being featured at the Taylorsville Light Parade, he is no stranger to the red suit. “This is my third year as Santa,” he said. He has previously made appearances at toy drives in Taylorsville and Magalia.
Next door to Santa’s Workshop, Grizzly Bite Pizza, Burgers and Brews was doing a brisk business. The picnic tables outside overflowed with laughter and lively conversations as families enjoyed pizza slices under strings of Christmas lights. Across the street at Young’s Market, parade-goers clustered on the porch and chatted, enjoying the festivities and the chance to connect with friends.
The parade itself kicked off shortly after 6 p.m., with a long line of vehicles festooned in colorful, flashing lights snaking its way westward down Arlington Road. Fire trucks, U.S. Forest Service vehicles, and tow trucks took turns sharing the stage with flamboyantly decorated UTVs and horses bedecked in flowing fairytale garb. Some participants threw candy and handed out glow sticks to the children lining the street, adding to the magical experience.
At the end of the night, as the crowds dispersed and parents loaded up kids sticky with the aftermath of candy canes and fun-size chocolate bars, one thing was very clear. Taylorsville, while it may be small, definitely knows how to usher in the holiday season in style.
