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Parade of Lights event scheduled for Dec. 2
The Mountain Home Chamber of Commerce will host the city's annual Christmas Parade of Lights on Dec. 2.
Scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m. that evening next to Fire Station 1, the parade will mark the first "official" appearance of Santa Claus in Mountain Home.
Each year, the event brings together floats and entries representing a number of businesses, organizations and civic groups in Mountain Home. Many of these entries are expected to depict this year's theme, "Welcome to Whoville."
After they leave the fire station, the parade procession will head down North 2nd East Street and turn right onto American Legion Boulevard and continue to Carl Miller Park.
Following the parade, Mayor Rich Sykes will light the new mayoral tree at the community park. In addition, organizers will also turn on the lights to more than four dozen illuminated trees at the park as part of a tradition that was originally scheduled to begin last year but was delayed after the six-foot trees didn't arrive in time for the holiday display.
During the evening, city firefighters will launch fireworks near the fire pit at the park as part of a new holiday tradition. In addition, representatives with the local Masonic organization will serve free hot dogs, coffee and cocoa while children are invited to meet with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Those interested in joining the parade procession are asked to fill out an entry form and submit it to the chamber office by Dec. 2.
Meanwhile, local businesses, civic groups and community organizations are invited to set up additional holiday displays at Railroad Park as part of the community's yearly "Light up the Park" project.
The cost to post a display varies based on whether groups are Chamber members or are not part of the organization. Those who had a display during last year's event are guaranteed a spot this year.
Display spaces measure 10-by-10 feet each and can be as simple as pre-made, lighted decorations from local retailers, according to chamber representatives. Ambitious individuals can build their own display using LED lights with a backing made from plywood or plastic piping.
Participants entering lighted displays must provide their own extension cords to reach power sources at the park. Groups and individuals must remove their displays by Jan. 3.
Entry forms for the parade as well as the lighted displays in Railroad Park are available at the Chamber office and are due by 4 p.m. Monday. For more information on the display, contact the Chamber office at 587-4334 or via e-mail at www.mountainhomechamber.com.