The Russellville Water and Sewer Department’s “Polar Express” float won first place in the Russellville Christmas parade.

After months of planning and preparations, citizens from across the county lined up over the past two weeks to see the annual Christmas parades in Russellville, Red Bay, Phil Campbell and Vina.

For the first time, Russellville’s Christmas parade had a theme and each float entered in the parade had to depict a popular Christmas story or movie.

Taking this year’s first place award was the Russellville Water and Sewer Department with their elaborate, life-sized “Polar Express,” complete with a train engine and passenger car filled with water and sewer employees, family members and friends.

The second place award went to the Russellville Electric Department and the third place award went to CB&S Bank.

Franklin County Chamber of Commerce director Cassie Medley said she thought each parade went over well.

“We had a lot of great floats and participation this year,” Medley said.

“Even though Russellville’s parade had to be postponed due to rain, we still had great turnouts and some of the floats were very impressive.

“I know the guys from the water and sewer and the electric departments spent months working on their floats, and I appreciate all the hard work and effort all the participants showed in trying to make these parades fun and enjoyable for everyone.”