Behind the scenes at the 2023 9News Parade of Lights

Featured Photo

Behind the scenes at the 2023 9News Parade of Lights

Denver Water brought a majestic float, two running toilets and a whole lot of holiday cheer this year.

The 49th annual 9News Parade of Lights once again delivered quite the holiday party in downtown Denver this year.

Thank you to all who turned out to see Denver Water’s “Mountain Magic” float and a dynamic duo of Running Toilets.

For the ninth straight year, the float showcased the journey of water as it moves from the “gift” of mountain snowpack to customers’ taps. It was guided by dedicated Denver Water employees along with family and friends.

Follow the photo journey below.

Happy holidays, everyone!

Two people in toilet costumes festooned with shiny Christmas garland dance in the street as part of a parade. — This year Denver Water brought two festively decked out Running Toilets, symbolizing the silent, sneaky water leaks that can increase water bills if not caught and fixed. Photo credit: Denver Water.

A person in a toilet costume runs along a barricade giving high fives to the people lining the parade route. — Making new friends along the 2-mile route of the 9News Parade of Lights. Photo credit: Denver Water.

The toilet costume stops along the parade route to take a rest. Kneeling and saluting the crowd along the route. — Take a knee, Running Toilet. Photo credit: Denver Water.

A group of people walking down the street parade, wearing yellow safety jackets, shiny Christmas garland, and waiving to the crowd. — Bringing snow and holiday cheer to last throughout the year. Photo credit: Denver Water.

A group of people walking down the parade route festooned with shiny garland and wearing yellow safety coats. — Denver Water’s “Mountain Magic” float at the 2023 9News Parade of Lights was guided by 30 dedicated employees, family and friends. Photo credit: Denver Water.

The running toilet costume looks at a group of horses along a parade route. — The Running Toilet pondering if it would be a good idea to ride a horse. Photo credit: Denver Water.

The Denver City and County building lit up with colored lights for Christmas — Denver’s City and County Building lit up in all its festive glory. Photo credit: Denver Water.

Two women smile for the camera, posing with the costumed toilet. — Denver Water’s Oona O’Neill (left) and Kathie Dudas pose with the Running Toilet, who never turns down a photo op. Photo credit: Denver Water.

A tiger float, with the costumed toilet standing in front of it. — The Running Toilet made friends with the American Furniture Warehouse floating tiger. Photo credit: Denver Water.

People stand on a float that says "Denver Water" they're waving at the crowd and happy to be a part of the celebration. — Our mission is to deliver clean, safe, great-tasting water to 1.5 million people — every day — and to support the vibrant community we serve. Photo credit: Denver Water.

A costumed toilet waves a plunger like a sword. — Anybody need a plunger? Photo credit: Denver Water.

Two costumed toilets dance together in the street. They're alone, but enjoying the fullness of life. — It takes two to Toilet Tango. Photo credit: Denver Water.