Get ready to embrace the spirit of the season as Smithville gears up for an unforgettable holiday celebration. The Smithville Christmas Parade and the 23rd Annual "Christmas on the Square" are again joining forces to make Saturday, December 7th, a day filled with joy, festivities and cherished memories.
The Smithville Christmas Parade will kick off the festivities at 4 p.m., but the line-up for the participants begins at 2 p.m., at the New Life Connection Center, 750 S. Congress Blvd., Smithville. The parade route will commence from the New Life Connection Center, proceeding along South Congress Blvd. and culminating in the heart of Downtown Smithville Square. Grand Marshalls for the parade will be this year’s Mr. DeKalb County - Smithville Mayor Josh Miller, and Ms. DeKalb County – Smithville Alderman Beth Chandler. Honorary Grand Marshalls will be Aaron and Thea Tippin.
Following the Smithville Parade, the enchanting "Christmas on the Square" and “Downtown Live Windows” extravaganza will begin at 5:30 p.m. The Smithville-DeKalb County Chamber cordially invites all attendees to stay and immerse themselves in the joy of the holiday season with an array of delightful activities in downtown Smithville.
Highlighted Events at "Christmas on the Square" include:
1. Chamber of Commerce "Live Windows” Contest: People of all ages love the “Live Windows.” Downtown businesses and offices will adorn their windows with amazingly creative "live" scenes, and beautifully decorated interiors for the occasion starting at 5:30 p.m. Smithville Mayor Josh Miller and Chamber Director Suzanne Williams will present awards for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places, in addition to a "Chamber Choice" award. Mayor Miller will personally donate $350 to the 1st place winner to be donated to the charity of their choice.
2. DeKalb Courthouse: Make sure to visit the DeKalb Courthouse to visit with elected county officials and partake in complimentary refreshments within a festive atmosphere. The courthouse's exterior will dazzle with large Christmas trees adorning both sides.
3. Smithville City Hall: Experience the magic of the season with festive outdoor Christmas displays, accompanied by holiday music playing outdoors. Inside, you can enjoy cookies and admire the interior decorations.
4. FREE Photo Booth: Sponsored by the City of Smithville, a photo booth will be available on the main floor of the courthouse for visitors to capture cherished moments.
5. Refuge Church: After the parade, head to Refuge Church at 303 Public Square, where they will be serving hot soup while it lasts and providing a place to warm up.
6. Justin-Potter Library: Bring your camera! Santa himself will be making a special appearance at the library from 6 to 7 p.m., offering photo opportunities for children. Each child will also receive a Christmas take-home craft.
7. Christmas Shopping: Discover an array of holiday specials and extended shopping hours at downtown stores, making it the perfect opportunity to select unique and wonderful Christmas gifts. Shops will be open until 8 p.m.
8. Smithville Electric: Be captivated by the dazzling lights at Evins Park's Open-Air Stage, beautifully decorated by Smithville Electric employees, creating a magical atmosphere.
Parking Information
· Parade Participants: Only parade entries will be allowed to enter the New Life Connection location. Overflow parking will be at the DeKalb County Complex.
· Downtown: The Downtown Smithville square will be partially blocked off for the event to make it more pedestrian-friendly. Streets on the north side of the square will be closed. But the Smithville city parking lot will be open and accessible from Don Cantrell Road (behind Evins Park).
If you’re not able to attend in-person, DTC Communications has you covered. The parade will air on DTC Channels 3 and 30 and available on the DTC3.tv website. As an added bonus, WCTE TV/PBS will be filming our Christmas on the Square event for their Season 3 “Wish You Were Here” grand finale program.
Smithville Fire Chief Charlie Parker and Chamber Director Suzanne Williams encourage everyone to attend this year's Smithville Parade and to linger for the delightful and heartwarming Christmas on the Square and Downtown Live Window event, describing it as the perfect way to usher in the Christmas season.
