BAKER COUNTY, Fla. – Baker County kicked off the holiday season with its annual parade that included a special grand marshal.
Peyton Blodgett, the 8-year-old boy with autism who was rescued in October after spending two days lost in the woods, led the parade.
Peyton was badly dehydrated when he was found by a deputy. His grandmother, Teresa Rewis, told News4Jax he's now 100 percent back to normal.
"He's very happy. Very, you know, real excited about the parade. Just doing real, real good," said Rewis.
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The best moment came when Peyton got to ride alongside the Baker County Sheriff's Office as grand marshal for the parade.
Soon he was followed by an amazing presentation from beauty queens to Santa's little helpers and everything in between.
Baker County residents showed just how proud they are of this tradition Saturday.
"We come every year regardless if we have to work or not," Johanna Lefevbre. "It's small town life. I love it."
While thousands of kids attended, Peyton's parents said he was the star of the night. For his family, having him near is the greatest Christmas present this holiday season.
"He loves Christmas. He's asked about Santa Claus," said Rewis. "He's very excited and we're very blessed to have him."