This year has certainly been one for the books, but the upcoming holiday season seems to be giving everyone that glimmer of happiness that is badly needed. Social distancing is at the utmost importance, so plan to do so at DeKalb County’s upcoming Christmas parades.
The Smithville Christmas parade, which was transitioned to a night-time parade last year, will roll the streets of Smithville on Saturday, Dec. 5 beginning at 4 pm. In order to practice safety measures and help with social distancing, the parade will begin at the New Life Connection Center at 750 S. Congress Blvd. It will then travel north on Highway 56 where it will wrap up after making its way downtown. Mr. and Miss DeKalb County, Sean and Christie Driver will lead the festivities following by floats, antique cars, horses and of course jolly St. Nick himself. There will be no four wheelers or off road motorcycles. Side by sides may participate as long as the driver has a valid driver’s license. To be part of the parade all you need to do is be present at the Life Enrichment Center at 3 pm.
Immediately after the Smithville Parade, Christmas on the Square will begin around 5 pm.
At the Smithville City Hall, festive outdoor Christmas lights on the outside with cookies to eat and decorations on the inside to see. For safety precautions, visitors will enter the City Hall building through the Smithville Police Department entrance on the south side of the building and exit through the front main entrance.
Christmas shopping will be taking place at the downtown stores with lots of specials and extended hours.
As you travel the downtown streets, enjoy the “live” window displays, and be sure to vote for your favorite. This has become a favorite of many, enjoying the live themed, decorated windows from 5-6 pm. Take a picture and post your favorite to the Smithville-DeKalb County Chamber Facebook page. The window with the most “likes” will get points added to the judges’ sheet. Chamber Director Suzanne Williams and Smithville Mayor Josh Miller will present a first, second, third and chamber choice winner, as well as, Mayor Miller donating $250 to the top winner’s favorite charity.
Also beginning at 5pm will be DeKalb Animal Shelter’s pet photos with Santa. There is a $10 donation, and this will be set up at 301 N. Public Square at the office of Attorney and City Judge Gayla Hendrix.
Justin Potter Library plans to have Santa. He will be outside this year in order to maintain social distancing and keep everyone safe.
The lights will be shining bright at the Evins’ Park Open-Air Stage. Smithville Electric’s employees will turn the stage into a magical wonderland perfect for snapping selfies.
Liberty’s annual Christmas will be held the following day on Sunday, Dec. 6 at 2pm. Lineup will beginning at 1pm at Salem Baptist Church. This year’s Grand Marshall will be the town’s new Mayor Dewayne Blair and his family. As always there will be beautiful floats, antique cars and more including the big guy himself. Santa will be available for photos after the parade.
The Town of Alexandria’s Annual Christmas Parade will be held the following Saturday December 12 at 5pm. As always, the parade will start at 400 West Main St and end at the Town Square with giveaways. There are a few changes this year. No candy will be thrown and all floats must have walking spotters. For those who are interested in being in the parade, the registration/waiver form can be found at www.townofalexandria.us or call 615-529-2171 for more details. Deadline for registration is Dec. 9 by 2 p.m.
