Sloatsburg — Bells clanged, lights flashed and sirens rang out as fire trucks from around Rockland County gathered this past Saturday, December 17, for the Orangeburg Volunteer Fire Association’s First Annual Holiday Parade.

“The turnout was fantastic,” said Assistant Chief Pete Byrne of the Orangeburg Fire Department. “Much more than we expected for the first show.” Byrne, who also served on the Parade Committee, said the community turnout was exceptional and that the department planned to hold the event next year. “It was designed to be a community event. It was a beautiful night. Cold but beautiful.”

14 Rockland County and New Jersey fire departments participated in the event, including fire engines from Sloatsburg and Mahwah. The Sloatsburg Fire Department took home the big blue trophy for best of show. The event included local fire department apparatus, ambulances, and assorted decorated vehicles.

Members of the Sloatsburg department assembled during the early morning hours Saturday and decorated their 1750 engine in sparkling Christmas splendor. The 1750 is the department’s all-around second response vehicle.

The fire engine was decked out with colorful wrapping paper, snowy windows and bright Christmas lights. On the front grill was attached a wintery wreath adorned with deer antlers. After winding its way through the parade route along Orangeburg and Dutch Hill roads and past the Orangeburg Firehouse, Sloatsburg’s 1750 was awarded the President’s Trophy, the highest award presented during the evening.

Sloatsburg firefighters were excited to win the award amid so many entries for a first time show. “It was amazing, the people were cheering us on and it felt fantastic to be part of such a wonderful community sponsored holiday event,” said Sloatsburg firefighter Brandon Bates.

For a video of the parade, go here. The Sloatsburg Fire Department passes at the 3 minute mark.

Hat tip to Pete Akey who contributed to this article and provided photos.