Because simply parading about as a massive groundhog simply wouldn't do for a mascot like Essex Ed, each year his team selects an alter ego for the rodent in a process cloaked in secrecy. This year, the Feb. 2 event unveiled Ed dressed as Adriaen Block, the explorer who in 1614 sailed up the Connecticut River.

As always, the parade drew a festive crowd of stalwarts ready to ensure the coming of spring weather by banging pots and pans as Ed passed. The relatively mild day made for a nice warm up for Essex's busy year of parades-next up is Essex Go Bragh on Saturday, March 15