CHICOPEE – On Nov. 10, the city of Chicopee presented “In the Spirit,” a reverse car parade. The notice for the event read in part, “Due to health concerns with the spread of COVID-19, this event is a Stay-In-Your-Vehicle event! ‘In the Spirit’ signifies the spirit of the community and spirit of the holidays that have been missed in our city!”    

Families in their cars drove through Szot Park with a wide variety of city departments, organizations and businesses with static displays. Holidays such as Veterans Day, Halloween and Christmas were all represented. Mayor John Vieau, Treasurer Marie Laflamme and Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi, among other officials, greeted families and handed out gift bags.