Zayleigh Rose Tochet,3, of Jennings is in awe as she meets Santa Claus and his elf, Bethany Mallett on Friday before the start of the annual Jennings Christmas parade. Children were eager to deliver their Christmas wishes to the big man in person.

Kamiyah McDowell, 3, of Jennings tells Santa she wants a Barbie for Christmas as older brother Demetruis, 4, waits his turn Friday during the Jennings Christmas Festival. The three day event kicked off Friday with a parade, hayrides, a bonfire, fireworks and continues this weekend with a holiday market and a Christmas play.

Ella West, 7, of Jennings is all smiles as she pulls Santa's sleigh with her go kart Friday during the annual Jennings Christmas parade. Families were lined up along Main Street to watch the parade pass in hopes of catching candy, cups, beads and other throws.

Jeff Davis Parish 4-H Junior. Leaders dress as their favorite holiday characters Friday as they line up for the start of the annual Jennings Christmas parade. The family-friendly event included hayrides, hot cocoa, visits with Santa, a bonfire, fireworks, holiday music and more.

Lyla Cormier of Jennings, Alonna Jones of Leonville and Ava Trahan of Jennings wave and throw candy Friday as they participate in the annual Jennings Christmas parade. Festivities will continue today with a Holiday Market on Main Street at 9 a.m. The market continues at 11 a.m. on Sunday, along with a children's Christmas play at 6 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at the Strand Theatre.

Annie LaBouve, 6, of Jennings and her brother, Collin, 5, are ready to throw candy as they get ready to make their way along the parade route Friday during the annual Jennings Christmas parade. The holiday festivities also included visits with Santa and other holiday characters, hayrides, hot cocoa, a bonfire, fireworks and more.