DeKalb County was in full Christmas swing last weekend, with Smithville, Liberty and Alexandria each hosting Santa Clause during their Christmas parades.

On Saturday, one of the largest crowds ever came out for the Smithville Christmas Parade and Christmas on the Square. The parade was sponsored by the Smithville Fire Department, and though it was a misty overcast day, the streets were lined with thousands of spectators on hand to grab some candy, see the floats and antique vehicles, and get a glimpse of Old Saint Nick himself.

The parade began at the New Life Connection Center on Congress Boulevard before turning by City Hall to round the Square. Mr. and Miss DeKalb County, Michael and Tara Hale, served as the Grand Marshals of the Parade.

DeKalb Funeral Chapel wowed the crowd with their first place float entry, while second place went to the New West Point Free Will Baptist Church. Hurricane Marina took third place honors. First Bank took the Spirit Award, which presented by the Smithville Business and Professional Women’s Club. Bee’s Body Boutique “Through Thick & Thin” and the DCHS Fighting Tiger Marching Band received honorable mentions.

After the parade, visitors enjoyed Christmas on the Square, which included live window displays, and refreshments at the courthouse and city hall. The DeKalb Animal Coalition also featured a pet photo shoot with Santa, while Justin Potter Library also featured the big guy.

The following afternoon, the Town of Liberty held its Christmas festivities with the streets lined with onlookers. The parade began at Salem Baptist Church and followed West Main Street to the town center.

Once again, local residents were treated to various floats, ATVs, automobiles, as well as horse, mules, and even a donkey. Mr. and Miss DeKalb County, Michael and Tara Hale, were again the Grand Marshals, while the DCHS Fighting Tiger Band entertained the crowds with some Christmas renditions. Local politicians and candidates were also on hand at the parade, including State Representative Terri Lynn Weaver.

Mt. Pisgah Free Will Baptist Church won first place in the float competition, while Salem Baptist Church won second place. Billy Joe Cripps won first place in the auto category with his 1956 Chevy, while Josh and Ray Miller came in second with their 1931 Ford Coupe. Alexis Reynolds took first place in the kids category, while second place went to Molly Carpenter and Family. Ty Curtis took both first and second place for pet entries.

Afterwards, the crowds gathered as drawings were held for prizes and giveaways.

That evening, Santa made yet another appearance, this time in Alexandria during their night Christmas Parade. Police Chief Chris Russell led the procession, followed by Grand Marshals Rick and Ria Baker.

Again, the DCHS band played for the crowd, followed by floats, antique vehicles, and horseback riders. Alexandria and DeKalb Firetrucks rolled down the parade route with lights and sirens blaring.

In the float competition, Eric Kinslow took first place, while Mike Stallard and Justin Paschal tied for first place in the auto category. Stallard drove 1957 Dodge Power Wagon pickup, while Paschal drove a 1964 Chevy C10 truck. In the ATV category, Lucas Nugent and Joshua won first place