CORNING, N.Y. (WENY) -- Downtown Corning was home to the Parade of Lights on Saturday night, kicking off the Gaffer District's Crystal City Christmas.

The parade ran the whole length of Market Street, and thousands of people lined the street to see the action.  This year's parade had about 50 participants, including marching bands, floats, dancers, fire trucks and of course, Santa Claus on a horse-drawn carriage.

Next week will be the 50th annual Sparkle event, where Market Street will turn into a festive holiday market from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.