For the first time in 32 years it was not Domer Leibensperger as King Frost leading the historic and well-loved King Frost Parade on Saturday, Oct. 25. In its 51st consecutive year, under the Hamburg Jaycees, the parade has entered into a new era and thus a new King Frost, George Mitten.
Well before the sounds of the bands and engines of the vehicles could be heard making their way down Third and Fourth Streets in Downtown Hamburg, residents and out-of-towners filled the sidewalks reserving their spots, catching up with friends and family, and of course getting a bite to eat. Unlike last year, the temperature was much more comfortable to sit outside and enjoy the parade.
Many in the community commented on the new King Frost being one of their favorite parts while at the same time thanking Leibensperger for all of the memories for the last 32 years. As always the bands and other musical entries were mentioned as favorites as well. Residents also enjoyed seeing so many familiar faces marching along the parade route.
A large gathering in support of Mitten as King Frost was seen in front of Windsor Press, of which Mitten is the President of, near the beginning of the parade during which the float paused for a moment to allow Mitten to bow and appropriately thank his supporters before continuing on the parade route. Mitten also shared a special moment with Leibensperger in front of Leibensperger Funeral Home on Fourth Street.
As a welcome to the upcoming winter season, Santa along with the Hamburg Jaycees wrapped up the parade at the end.
Winners for this year’s King Frost Parade
FloatsOverall Float Winner: Reading Company Technical & Historical Society – Steam Engine
YouthFirst: Girl Scout Junior Troop 1841 – Girl Scout Wonderland
Second: Cub Pack – Scouts in Shining Armor
BusinessFirst: Grube’s Dairy Store
Second: Scott Ulrich’s Motorcycles – Ride Hard but Safe
Third: VJ Wood Towing & Recovery
Non-ProfitFirst: Ricky & the Ricardos
Second: Hamburg Area High School Cheerleaders
Third: Lions Club International
Marching GroupsBaton/TwirlingFirst: The Impact Twirlers – Making an Impact
Second: Cheryl Chickey’s Performing Arts – Get Up and Dance
WalkingFirst: Culture Shock – Dancing in Disney
Second: Tompkins VIST BankMasqueraders
Individuals: Giant TrollSmall Group
First: Randy’s Rolling Pooch Parlor
Large GroupFirst: MicroTel & Pappy T’s – Villains of the Ages
Second: Cub Pack 144 – Scouts in Shining Armor
Third: Great Clips Family Hair Salon
BandsB2First: Oley Valle Marching Lynx
Second: Parkland High School Band
Third: Schuylkill Valley High School Band
B1First: Hamburg Area High School Band
Second: Brandywine Heights High School Band
CommunityFirst: Rajah Shrine Chanters
Second: Drummers with AttitudeThird: Allentown Hobo Band