Despite the scorching afternoon sun, thousands lined the streets of the little island to witness the offerings. The parade was officially launched by Penang State Executive Councillor Datuk Dr Toh Kin Woon, who represented Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon.

Following the launch, all 8,000 participants burst out in the song, ‘Joy to the World’, stirring the enthusiastic crowd to join them. The parade then began with the Parade Committee leading the dignitaries, among whom were Minister for Transport Dato’ Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik and Jawi assemblyman Tan Cheng Liang.

The main attraction of the parade were four spectacular floats designed specially for the occasion. Among the floats was "The Manger" which depicted the nativity scene with live sheep and lamb on board. The floats were constructed and sponsored by various churches.

Other attractions were brass bands; "musical lorries" carrying choirs from various churches; a convoy of 50 trishaws carrying participants wearing traditional costumes of various nations; and hundreds of dancers who performed tambourine and cultural dances. Not to be left out were some 30 disabled participants from the Eden Handicap Centre who took the 4.5 kilometre-route in their wheelchairs and crutches.

Of course, no parade in Penang is complete without a display of majestic chingay flags. Six chingay teams showed off their prowess in handling the six standards, of which four were specially commissioned for the parade. They bore the messages Jesus the Light of the World, Joy to the World, His Banner Over Us is Love and Jesus Loves You. Complementing the huge standards were 50 colourful banners from various churches.

The historic parade was the effort of the Penang Pastors’ Fellowship, Penang Chinese Churches Caring Centre, Penang Tamil Pastors’ Fellowship, Penang Council of Chinese Churches, Penang BM Churches, CCM and the Roman Catholic Church.