John Byrne photos/Tribune
The holiday season officially began in Sparks over the weekend as the city hosted the 30th annual Hometowne Christmas Celebration in Victorian Square. Friday night’s tree lighting ceremony was followed Saturday by an afternoon of fun with a parade that featured floats, costumes and the “Mayor’s Own Marching Band” comprised of over 250 music students from local schools. As usual, one of the highlights of the day was the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus who rode into town in style on their Christmas float.