A Holly, Jolly Christmas on the River

You know the song: It’s the most wonderful time of the year! That certainly applies to Monroe/West Monroe, where all sorts of festive events and activities gather under the banner of Christmas on the River to welcome the season with much merriment.

The holiday mood gets underway on Veterans Day with the lighting of the Freedom Trees on November 11. Illuminated through the New Year, these beautifully decorated Christmas Trees at the Chennault Aviation & Miliary Museum mark the start of the holiday season while honoring the sacrifices of veterans and those currently serving in the military.

On November 25, it’s time to throw the switches on the annual Land of Lights in downtown Monroe and West Monroe. Thousands of twinkling holiday lights are powered up, igniting a cheery, festive vibe for the young and young at heart. Stroll through the lights, shop for presents at locally owned boutiques and leave time to enjoy dinner at one of downtown’s many eateries.

The fun continues November 24 through December 24 with Christmas at Kiroli, a dazzling drive-through light display. Purchase a ticket for your car and take in the experience, which features massive displays of detailed lighting that will make you and your passengers feel like a kid again. This impressive wonderland is open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings from 6 pm to 9 pm.

How about a parade and some fireworks? Heck, yes! On December 2, kick off the merriment with the Bawcomville Redneck Parade, full of fun surprises and unique throws like toilet paper, hot dogs, and maybe a turnip or two. Then, head downtown and catch the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ouachita’s annual Christmas parade, a family friendly event featuring floats festooned with red, green, silver and gold. Look closely, because on one of them, you’ll likely see none other than Santa himself! This year’s theme is “Ugly Christmas Sweaters,” so start shopping for something delightfully tacky to wear as the floats roll by. When the sun goes down later, grab some hot cocoa and catch a dazzling display of fireworks over the Ouachita River. Bright colors will explode from the Endom Bridge in this cherry-on-top to a memorable, magical day.

This fall, Monroe and West Monroe welcomes visitors with a variety of experiences wide enough to bring a smile to folks of all ages.  Discover more about how to plan your perfect weekend away at monroe-westmonroe.org.