Important changes to the Christmas Parade of Lights

It’s that time of year when downtown Mena transforms into a place of wonder and magic for children and adults alike with our Annual Mena Christmas Parade of Lights. Come join the fun as The Mena Polk County Chamber of Commerce kicks off the holiday season with a “Cowboy Christmas” themed parade.

The magical and lively parade will make its way down Mena St. from the south end on Saturday, December 3 at 6 p.m., crossing Highway 71 (just once this year), before turning on Port Arthur Ave., and ending at historic Janssen Park. Christmas themed entries will include illuminated and brightly decorated floats, marching bands, equestrian units, and non-profit groups. This is Mena’s biggest and brightest parade, making it a holiday favorite you won’t want to miss.

­Cynthia Martin, 2020 Citizen of the Year, will be proudly leading the parade as our esteemed Grand Marshall. Martin won’t be the only star of the show because Santa Claus is coming to town! Santa has marked his calendar to make a special appearance in Mena, Arkansas. For kids young and old, visions of jolly Ol’ St. Nick mark the true beginning of the season and provide a fitting close to the night’s parade.

There will be a contest for the floats and entries with the best interpretation of the “Cowboy Christmas” theme. Announcements of winners will be made at the Christmas Festival in Janssen Park following the parade. Candy and other goodies will be tossed to onlookers in this family-friendly holiday event. We encourage everyone to line the parade route, fill the sidewalks, bring your chairs or sit along the curbs to enjoy the show.

 A few safety reminders for parade onlookers: 

We ask parents to help ensure the safety of the children and please do not allow them to go into the street during the parade while trying to retrieve candy and goodies. 

Walking Candy Tossers are encouraged to “toss to the curb” in an effort to increase safety. 

We also ask you do not park any vehicles along the parade route, as this limits and blocks the viewing area of the parade. We truly appreciate your assistance in making this a wonderful and family-friendly event.

Please take note of an important change to this year’s event. Parade line up begins at 5:30 p.m. and will be held at Dallas Avenue Baptist Church. Anyone wishing to participate in the parade must turn in a completed registration form to the Chamber office no later than Wednesday, December 1. Forms can be found at menapolkchamber.com, at the Chamber office, or call 479-394-2912 for additional details.

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