Springfield, Mo. – For the first time, the city’s beloved Christmas parade and the Mayor’s Tree Lighting Holiday Show will take place together on Saturday, Nov. 21, creating a single evening of festive celebration in downtown Springfield.
Downtown for the Holidays
The city of Springfield and the Downtown Springfield Association are co‑organizing “Downtown for the Holidays,” a series of free, family‑friendly events centered on Park Central Square and the surrounding neighborhood. The combined parade and tree‑lighting ceremony are the headline attractions of the Saturday program.
Parade Details
The Springfield Christmas Parade will roll out at 3 p.m. under the theme “Home for the Holidays.” Mayor Jeff Schrag will serve as grand marshal. The procession begins at the intersection of Elm Street and South Avenue, travels north on South Avenue, circles the east side of Park Central Square, and then proceeds east on St. Louis Street toward the Springfield Expo Center. Spectators can expect floats, marching bands, decorated vehicles, community organization displays and a visit from Santa Claus.
Tree‑Lighting Celebration
Tree‑lighting festivities on Park Central Square start at 5 p.m. Santa will arrive at 6 p.m. aboard the SGF Holiday Express, followed by performances from local student ensembles. The main holiday show begins around 6:30 p.m., hosted by KY3’s Jackie Garrity and Chad Plein. Mayor Schrag and First Lady Mary Schrag will welcome attendees, and the mayor will read “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” to children on stage. Free books, provided through the Mayor’s Commission on Children with a grant from the Musgrave Foundation, will be handed out to young readers.
Performers and Activities
Entertainment includes Studio Vie dancers, the Pershing Middle School Orchestra, Springfield Little Theatre, Kickapoo High School performers, local singers Jessie and Avery Cowen, and the Springfield Sound men’s choir. A community countdown will lead into the tree lighting at approximately 7 p.m.
The Merry Market will line Park Central Square with local vendors offering holiday shopping, while Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for free visits from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Santa House beneath the illuminated tree. Complimentary hot chocolate and cookies will be served, and free lighted holiday train rides will be offered.
Additional Holiday Events
Springfield’s holiday schedule continues with “Santa Weekends on the Square” on Nov. 27‑28 and Dec. 4‑5, 11‑12, 18‑19. Other seasonal attractions include free ice skating, horse‑drawn carriage rides and additional holiday shopping opportunities.
For the latest updates, residents are encouraged to visit sgfholidaysdowntown.com.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
