POCATELLO - Alana Arnell stood on a triangular median near the Center Street underpass watching the Parade of Lights pass by Friday night.

In her hand, she held a bag of candy, which grew heavier as people on the floats tossed Tootsie Rolls and taffy to spectators. Alana, 6, and her family dressed in layers as did most of the people along the parade route. Temperatures dipped into the high 30s and the breeze blew steadily.

Some people huddled together under large blankets to keep warm.

When asked about her favorite part of the spectacle, Alana's answer was simple, but not surprising.

"The candy," she said, before quickly turning her attention back to the parade.

Alana's mother, Janae, said her family attends most of Pocatello's annual parades, but her favorite is the Parade of Lights. She said all the people coming together to celebrate the holidays is heartwarming to watch.

"It's good to see the Christmas spirit, even when it's cold," Janae said.

Her other daughter, 20-month-old Aleea, stared in fascination at the colorful lights strung across each of the passing floats, including a Christmas tree on the back of an all-terrain vehicle sponsored by the Pocatello Zoo, and Smokey the Bear representing the U.S. Forest Service. Santa and Mrs. Claus rode in the basket of a Pocatello Fire Engine.

Alana's father, Chad, said the parade is nice, but when asked his favorite part of the holidays, the answer was as simple as Alana's.

"The presents," he said.