I turned on the television to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade Thursday, even though I knew I wouldn’t sit down to watch it. That’s how it typically is: The parade on and me listening while I cook.

Truth be told, listening to all the commentary can become a bit much, but I do enjoy hearing the musical performances.

This year, there were quite a few performers who I had no idea who they were — I guess it’s an age thing. But when The Temptations performed “My Girl,” I was glad to hear a familiar tune and even danced just a bit as I mixed up my pineapple salad.

I also stopped everything I was doing when the Spirit Of America performers came on.

A hundred years ago — well maybe not a hundred — my middle daughter, along with several other students from the Debra Franco Preparatory School of Dance, had the opportunity to perform in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade as one of the Spirit of America dancers.

She had the time of her life and one that will always be remembered, especially since I got to attend too.

Middle daughter and my niece, who was also performing in the parade, flew up early for rehearsals and a few days later my sister-in-law and I went up.

It wasn’t my first time going to New York, but it was the first time I had been during the holidays.

And let me just say, if you ever have a chance to visit The Big Apple, do it at Christmas.

I mean, not only was the parade something to view up close and personal, but the designer store fronts were decorated to the nines.

And speaking of store fronts, have you driven down Washington Street here in Vicksburg lately? I just want to give a shout-out to all the homeowners, businesses and the Vicksburg Main Street program. You have made our downtown festive and beautiful.

In fact, my youngest daughter is bringing her mother-in-law to Vicksburg, and I can’t wait to show off our lovely town.

For anyone who hasn’t had the chance to shimmy downtown, I would definitely urge you to go and feast your eyes on all the lights and trees. You won’t be disappointed.

And while you are down there, drive on down to the Washington Street Park. It got lit up Friday, so it’s a beaut too. Also, don’t forget to mark your calendar for  our local Christmas parade of lights. It will roll through downtown Washington Street beginning at 5 p.m. Dec. 8.

I can hardly wait. With this year’s theme being “The Nutcracker,” it’s sure to be awesome.

We may not be New York City, but Vicksburg has a lot of good things going on for the holidays.

Terri Cowart Frazier writes features for The Vicksburg Post. She can be reached at terri.frazier@vicksburgpost.com.