With friends, family, and superheroes cheering them on, the Grand Marshals of the 2022 Umpqua Valley Festival of Lights took the first trip through the displays Sunday night, marking the opening of the 20th edition of the event.
Seated in the cab of a Douglas County Fire District 2 firetruck, Grand Marshals Andrew, Alex, and Parker were a special part of the tradition that began in 1993 – well before any of them were born.
“I want to drive!” said Andrew, who could barely be able to see over the steering wheel and won’t have his driver’s license for at least another 6 years. Alex, who is closer to driving age, stoically took in the half million lights, while Parker excitedly scanned the lights, cracking jokes and commenting on what he was seeing throughout the tour.