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Lynn's Christmas Eve Parade Draws A Strong Turnout

LYNN (CBS) -- The wonder of Christmas came early in Lynn.

While it's not the main event, of course, but the city's annual Christmas Eve parade captivated little and big kids alike.

"Salem might have Halloween but Lynn has Christmas," a man said.

Gerry McCaul's children may be all grown up, but she still comes to watch.

"Every year since it started," she says, adding that she's attended nearly 30 parades.

The parade has grown to 120 vehicles and floats, and it loops 23 miles through the city for five hours.

Lynn Christmas Eve Parade
More than 100 floats and vehicles participated in Lynn's Christmas Eve parade on Thursday. (WBZ-TV)

Patty Fone took her family, including four foster children.

"(It's a) nice time to celebrate and let them know what Christmas is all about," she says.

They already have their Christmas wishes, as one of the youngsters asked for an iPad. Another said they enjoyed spending time with family, while another says it doesn't feel like winter without the snow.

There was one present that needed extra special care this holiday.

Mrs. Claus herself delivered the surprise that perhaps created the most excitement: an engagement ring.

lynn2
A man proposed to a woman during Lynn's Christmas Eve parade on Thursday. (WBZ-TV)

"I didn't even expect it at all so it's great," said the woman, who said yes when her boyfriend proposed to her.

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