This year’s parade is expected to be one of the biggest. Three live camels will lead the parade with this year’s celebrity riders to include both Mayors of Texarkana, and Express Clydesdales pulling a stagecoach with Santa Claus. Experience up close and personal the world renowned gentle giants and their team.
The theme for this year’s 31st annual downtown Texarkana Christmas parade will be ‘A Magical Christmas’. The parade will begin at 7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 7.
Registration is now open for the 31st Annual Main Street Texarkana Christmas Parade and for the related Christmas tree decorating contest and fundraiser. Parade entrants are encouraged to incorporate the theme into their floats and lighted floats are a requirement for entry.
At 4 p.m. the vendor areas in downtown Texarkana will open prior to the parade. On the Texas side, the Farmers’ Market at Texas Boulevard and Third Street will be open with holiday crafts, jams and jellies, Christmas trees for sale and live music. On the Arkansas side, Front Street Festival Plaza will offer refreshments and handmade holiday items.
The Festival of Trees is returning for a second year to Front Street Festival Plaza, this year serving as a fundraiser for local not-for-profits. Entry Deadline: Friday, Nov. 27th
Photos of all of the trees will be posted on Main Street Texarkana’s Facebook page, and photo likes will be tallied to determine the most popular tree, which will receive a trophy from Main Street Texarkana.
Agencies, businesses and individuals are encouraged to decorate and donate an artificial tree, and designate a benefiting nonprofit group. The trees will be auctioned on Main Street Texarkana’s Facebook page, with all proceeds going to the appointed nonprofit.
“Last year was the first time we displayed Christmas trees in the festival plaza, and a lot of people suggested that we do this as a fundraiser. We’re glad to be incorporating that idea this year and look forward to a fun way to support some great causes this holiday season,” said Brandy Chewning with the Texarkana, Ark., Public Works Department.
Trees won in the auction may be picked up on Tues., Dec. 8, at times to be announced. Checks are the accepted payment and should be made out directly to the benefiting nonprofit.
To donate an artificial tree in good shape, bring them to the Texarkana, Ark., Recycling Center, 2601 Dudley St. Those who have applied to join the Festival of Trees may come to the recycling center to pick up a tree for decoration. The city is able to provide a tax receipt for Christmas trees donated to this event.
Also, throughout the month of December, there will be horse-drawn carriage rides downtown. Just $5 per person. Pickup and drop off are at the red caboose in Front Street Festival Plaza.
Parade rules: 2015 XMAS PARADE RULES
Entry application: CHRISTMAS 2015 parade application
Other information: ADDITIONAL CHRISTMAS PARADE INFORMATION SHEET2015
