As happens every year, Newtown Labor Day Parade judges had their work cut out for them. Dozens of exciting entries flowed past the grand stand, Monday morning, September 7, making it a challenge to choose the best of the best from among them.

By the time the last tractor had trundled down Queen Street, though, judges had come up with their list of winners:

Best Musical Entry, Senior Division, First Place: A Touch of Ambiance

Best Musical Entry, Senior Division, Runner Up: The Simply Swing Band

Best Musical Entry, Junior Division, First Place: Orquestra La Yunquena

Best Musical Entry, Junior Division, Runner Up: Connecticut Tiare Polynesian Dance Troupe

Best Float, First Place: 12.14 Foundation/NewArts, Lion King

Best Float, Runner Up: Moms Club of Newtown

Best Non-Musical Entry, First Place: Wells Fargo Stagecoach

Best Non-Musical Entry, Runner Up: Eastern Vintage Police Car Association

Best School, First Place: Hawley School

Best New Entry, First Place: The Simply Swing Band

Most Patriotic, First Place: VFW Post 308 and Ladies Auxiliary

Most Fitting the Parade Theme: Tie: Amplitude Marketing and Christ the King Lutheran Church

Most Colorful Entry, First Place: St Rose of Lima Catholic Church

Most Crowd Pleasing Rooster Award: 12.14 Foundation/NewArts, Lion King

Pioneers & Legends Award: Sons of Portugal Band