The Christmas Spirit was in full swing last weekend despite rain postponing the Smithville Christmas Parade last Saturday evening. The Christmas on the Square and Live Window displays carried on in Smithville, while Liberty and Alexandria held their parades on Sunday. The Smithville Christmas Parade has been rescheduled for Saturday, December 9, starting at 2 p.m.

A large crowd braved the rainy weather Saturday evening as local residents visited local businesses, City Hall, and the DeKalb County Courthouse for Christmas on the Square. Local shops were open to welcome shoppers and show off their holiday themed window displays. Hot chocolate and Smores were handed out, along with candy and other goodies to visitors to the event.

The enchanting Christmas on the Square event once again brought the magic of the holiday season to our downtown, with captivating "Live Window" displays that left judges in awe. The competition was fierce, as local businesses showcased their creativity and festive spirit, making it a challenging task for the judges to select the winners.

Chamber Director Suzanne Williams expressed her amazement, stating, "The downtown window displays are something to see! Our local business owners show off their talents at this special event."

Receiving the first-place title is Cantrell’s Clothing, whose display featured a lively scene of a singing and dancing Elvis along with adoring girls dressed in poodle skirts. The combination of nostalgia and holiday cheer captured the hearts of both judges and spectators alike. Smithville Mayor Josh Miller personally donated $250 to the First Place Winner’s Charity of Choice, DeKalb County Angel Tree Project, Inc.

Securing the second-place spot is DeKalb County Florist, whose window boasted a delightful ensemble featuring Santa, Mrs. Claus, a Gingerbread Man, and hardworking elves. The attention to detail and festive elements made their display stand out to the judges.

Earning third place is Cheryl's Beau Bees with a magical scene from the Nutcracker. The artistry and imagination displayed in this portrayal of the classic holiday tale impressed the judges and added a touch of elegance to the festivities.

Normally, there is a Chamber Choice Award, but due to the equally fabulous windows, the separate judges for this award couldn’t choose between Button Willow General Store and Coffee Shop’s heartwarming Buddy the Elf scene accompanied by live music from a talented violinist and pianist, The Arts Garage’s tribute to Bob Ross, The Purple Door Antiques and Uniques’  Ski Scene with vintage skis and a real dog, RealSource's playful rendition of "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus," The Vintage Owl's beautiful Barbie, The Attic on West Walnut's scene with Santa, Mrs. Claus, adorable little ballerinas, and a handmade sleigh, and The Male Room Bro-tique's dynamic duo of Santa and the Grinch with the green-lit Male Room Grinchmobile. Thank you to all for going above and beyond!

The Christmas on the Square "Live Window" displays truly brought the holiday spirit to life, captivating both young and old. Their creativity added an extra layer of joy and fun to the festive season. Congratulations to all for making this year's event truly memorable.

Liberty started off the parade celebrations with a long line of participants. Spectators were treated to various floats, antique vehicles and tractors, ATVs and motorcycles, emergency vehicles, and even horseback riders.

State Representative Michael Hale and wife Tara served as grand marshals for the event, which also included Mr. and Mrs. DeKalb County Shane and Susan Martin, Sheriff Patrick Ray, County Mayor Matt Adcock, Register of Deeds Daniel Seber, Road Supervisor Danny Hale, and Assessor of Property Shannon Cantrell.

Santa rode in style at the parade, hitching a ride atop the Liberty Engine 65 firetruck, waving to the kids and throwing some candy.

The crowd stuck around after the parade for various awards and prize giveaways. Salem Baptist Church won first place in the float category, while Back 40 Farms from the Harvey Family of Liberty (Alyssa, Brynn, Bryce, Wesleigh, Braxton and the Grinch) won second place.

Brady Evans won first place in the antique vehicles category for his 1971 International Travelall, while Mark and Melinda Miller were awarded second place.

First place for the Spirit award went to Bill Stanton, while Luke Prichard and his fleet of dump trucks won second place. In the kid’s category, Alexis Reynolds won first place, and second place went to Brayden Carter, Kye, and Briggs.

Alexandria held their nighttime Christmas parade at 5 p.m. that Sunday, with a large crowd lining the streets in hopes of getting a glimpse of Santa. Once again, the parade featured local officials including the Alexandria and DeKalb Fire Departments, DeKalb EMS, DeKalb Rescue, TN Wildlife, and Alexandria Police.

No awards were given to participants in the parade, but the crowd hung around for various prizes during a giveaway after the parade.