A few years ago little Margaret McLaughlin looked on from the sidelines as fourth graders marched down Morgan Academy’s hallways showing off their floats for the annual shoebox Christmas parade.

Now a fourth grader herself, she was ready Friday to take her turn and make that trip down the hall as students cheered for her float.

“I’m really excited because I’ve been watching it since I was in first grade,” McLaughlin said.

With the help of her grandmother, McLaughlin made her very own float. Her inspiration came from her love of Christmas and the joy she feels waking up on the magical day.

“I just like waking up Christmas morning and seeing all the presents around the tree,” McLaughlin said.

McLaughlin’s fourth grade teacher, Kelly Pomeroy, said the annual event is one of the highlights of the Christmas season.

“It gets [the kids] in the spirit, and it’s nice to see that they enjoy the real reason for the season and sharing with others,” Pomeroy said. “It doesn’t take long, but they get really excited about it.”

The parade only lasts a few minutes, but to the kids participating, time isn’t a factor.

“They’ve been excited all day,” Pomeroy said. “Just enjoying the excitement and being around them at Christmas puts you in the spirit.”

The floats were not the only things bringing out the Christmas joy.

Fifth grade students also walked in the parade while singing different Christmas carols.

Just as any great Christmas parade would end, Santa Claus appeared and left a smile on the faces of the children.

The annual shoebox parade at Morgan Academy has been going on for about 15 years.