East Rockaway students show off seasonal spirit and creativity with balloon parade

A beloved holiday tradition continued as kindergartners at East Rockaway’s Rhame Avenue Elementary School took over the hallways for the “Balloons of Rhame” parade on Nov. 22. The annual event is an homage to Melissa Sweet’s book “Balloons Over Broadway,” which tells the story of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The students were decked out in their handmade Thanksgiving hats and turkey costumes as they carried festive balloons that they created in their classrooms. Characters that made an appearance on balloons at this year’s parade included old favorites like Mickey Mouse, Spiderman, Mario, Elmo and Elsa, and new heroes including Barbie, Baby Yoda, Minions and Princess Peach.

The kindergartners marched through the hallways with their oversized creations flying high while the other students lined the hallways, waving posters and cheering them on.

The parade concluded in the gym where parents were waiting to witness the joyous spectacle. The students then entertained their guests with three festive songs and joined them at the tables for a fun holiday project.