I LOVE parades. It could be the energy of the crowd, might be the candy I knew would be thrown my way as a kid, or perhaps it’s that I’m an expert in the “elbow-elbow, wrist-wrist-wrist” category of parade-waving.

It doesn’t really matter the reason why — I still LOVE parades.

My friends and I discovered the Siesta Key Christmas Parade somewhat at the last minute, understanding it would take place near Siesta Key Village on Thanksgiving weekend. The parade was canceled last year but back in full force this year, with large crowds, fun floats and all the candy a kid could desire!

In order to ensure we had a great location for parade-watching, we scoped out a parking spot near the beginning of the parade route and planned to pass the time checking out the local shopping complex in the area. That’s when I stumbled upon The Fudge Factory, with homemade candy, fudge and ice cream.

Originally established on the New Jersey boardwalk in 2002, this homemade fudge-fest began selling in Siesta Key in 2012. Inside, the staff were super welcoming (even as we accidentally entered through the back door and found ourselves BEHIND the counter instead of in front of it), and my friends and I were mesmerized by the sheer size of the fudge cuts in the window!

Although they were out of peanut butter fudge (my first choice) and Oreo cookie fudge (my second choice — this place is popular!), we selected the milk chocolate walnut fudge and were not disappointed! I’ve never seen or felt the weight of such a chunk of fudge in my life! And the taste was divine — rich chocolate balanced by the nutty walnut flavor and extra creamy on the tongue.

Turns out, the fudge was a fabulous prelude to the parade itself, which featured area businesses in Siesta Key and Sarasota, colorful lights and glittering decorations, cars, boats, scooters, jet skis and even Santa Claus himself!

I smiled and laughed as the parade passed, taking pictures and videos, appreciating the fun and frivolity of a great hometown parade. I also remember closing my eyes and taking a deep breath as I enjoyed this unofficial commencement of the Christmas season.

Let there be fudge.

— Carrie Cox, account executive