Ben Pifher/MDN Margie Bolton, left, gives Santa a hug to welcome him to downtown Minot on Friday after she ushered the parade escorting him.

A small crowd gathered in downtown Minot on Friday to watch Santa’s parade on Main Street. Shortly after 3 p.m., sirens could be heard echoing down the street, as onlookers sought their source. Police cruisers and fire trucks could be seen reflected in downtown’s many windows with flashing lights and horns blaring, signaling the start of a short parade to escort Santa downtown for cookies and milk, the lighting of the Christmas tree and a downtown stroll.

Santa could be seen waving excitedly from the side of a fire truck, smiling and waving at spectators, some outside and some who were unwilling to brave the 12 below wind chill, standing in shops.

Courtney Osler and her husband, Jason, of Minot, were out shopping shortly before the parade and taking children they were babysitting to see the parade.

“We’re just kinda hanging out instead of being cooped in the house all day,” said Courtney Osler.

Jason Osler said he had been working outside since 3 a.m., and jokingly said he was enjoying the cold weather.