November 21, 2022
By: Dwayne Page
The Smithville Christmas Parade and Christmas on the Square will be celebrated together on Saturday, December 3rd.
The parade will begin at 4:00 pm with the lineup starting at 2:00 pm near the New Life Connections Center on South Congress Boulevard. Competition floats are all that need to register. To register a float, email the name of the organization / group to: smithvillefiredept@gmail.com or text to 615-318-6900 All other entries do not have to register as they will be put in line as they arrive. Side by sides are allowed with licensed drivers, but no 4 wheelers. Horses & Wagons will unload at the Bill Page Ballpark and enter the parade route on Bryant Street at the redlight.
The parade will leave from New Life Connection Center onto South Congress Boulevard to the Downtown Smithville Square, Smithville.
Immediately after the Smithville Parade, Christmas on the Square will begin around 5:30 PM. The Smithville-DeKalb County Chamber wants to invite everyone to stay after the parade. So many fun activities happening in downtown Smithville.
The Christmas on the Square event includes:
Chamber of Commerce “Live” Windows Contest in Downtown Businesses/Offices – Downtown windows will have “live” scenes in their beautifully, decorated windows from 5:30 to 6:30 PM. YOU CAN VOTE for your favorite “Live” Display Window. Take a picture and post your favorite on the Smithville-DeKalb County Chamber Facebook Page. The live display window with the “Most Likes” will get points added to the judges’ tally sheet. Chamber Director Suzanne Williams will be presenting 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places along with a “Chamber Choice” award for the “Live Window” contest.
DeKalb Courthouse – Stop by to visit the elected county officials and enjoy free refreshments and a festive atmosphere. Large Christmas trees will be decorated on both sides of the exterior of the courthouse.
FREE Photo Booth sponsored by the City of Smithville will be located on the main floor of the courthouse
Smithville City Hall – Festive outdoor Christmas displays, and holiday music will be playing on the outside with cupcakes to enjoy and decorations to view on the inside. Folks will enter the City Hall building through the south side of the building and exit through the front main entrance.
Christmas Shopping at Downtown Stores – There will be lots of specials and extended hours for shopping making it a great night to pick out wonderful and unique Christmas presents.
Justin-Potter Library – Santa will make a special visit at the library from 6:00 to 7:00 PM for photos with the children, so bring your cameras. There will also be a Christmas take-home craft for each child.
DeKalb Animal Shelter FREE Pet Photos with Santa – Starting at 5:30 PM at the office of Gayla Hendrix, 301 N Public Square, bring your own camera to take your pet’s photo with Santa. It’s FREE, although donations are appreciated.
Smithville Electric – The lights will be shining brightly at Evins Park’s Open-Air Stage beautifully decorated by Smithville Electric System employees.
“We hope everyone can attend this year’s Smithville Parade and stay for the enjoyable and heartwarming Christmas on the Square event! It’s the perfect way to begin the Christmas season, said Chamber Director Williams.
For Community Calendar:
Sunday, December 4th at 2 PM – Liberty Christmas Parade. The lineup begins at 1 p.m. on West Main Street near Salem Baptist Church. In addition to floats, the entries this year will include a category for kids and a separate one for animals/4 wheelers and then another for antique vehicles/tractors. Refreshments will also be served. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for pictures.
Sunday, December 4th at 5 PM – Alexandria Parade