Now that the annual Lansdale Mardi Gras Parade has been held, the holiday season is officially under way locally.

And if you enjoyed the parade this past Saturday, we thought perhaps you’d like to take a look at a few photos from years gone by, from The Reporter files.

In 1978, (far right) you’ll see how jolly Santa looked as he welcomed in the Christmas season during that parade. That year marked the 28th annual parade, which was sponsored at that time by the Lansdale Jaycees.

The story on the 1978 parade noted that it was a “crisp, sunny fall” day, and the morning parade concluded at 2 p.m., right on schedule.

A photo from the 1979 parade (top) features the North Penn High School Marching Knights. Their banner notes that they were the 1979 National Field Show Champions at the St. Petersburg, Fla., Festival of States.

And also from 1979 (right) is a very creative person almost hidden by the packages that make up his costume.

We hope both the parade on Saturday and these photos from decades ago have put you in the shopping and giving spirit.