Carthage to Celebrate 226th Christmas on the Town Square with Hometown Parade & Festivities

November 3, 2025

The Town of Carthage invites you to gather for the annual Hometown Christmas Parade on Sunday, December 7th at 4:30 PM, marking the 226th Christmas since our founding. This beloved holiday tradition brings us together for an evening of music, lights, and cheer centered around the Historic Smith County Courthouse Square. The parade will begin in the parking area on Industrial Drive, proceed east on Highway 25, continuing south on Main Street to 2nd Avenue. Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive at the Historic Courthouse to greet children at North Pole Main Street – Historic Courthouse. Entertainment & Festivities

• 3:30 PM – Performances on courthouse steps, River City Dreamin and Carthage Dance Studio.

• 4:30 PM – Parade begins from Industrial Drive.

• 5:00 PM (approx.) – Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive at the courthouse. (Visits Start Shortly)

• 5:15 PM (approx.) –tree-lighting ceremony Mayor Jeff Mason & Harvest Queen royalty.

• 5:25 PM (approx.) – The Smith County Playhouse presents a holiday performance. Parade float judging will award prizes of $100, $75, and $50, with winners announced during the evening.

Santa’s Visit Families will be assigned numbers upon check-in with Santa’s elf’s to ensure smooth and enjoyable visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. While waiting, attendees can enjoy live entertainment, music, and holiday treats around the courthouse square.

Float participants are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy as their entry fee, which will be donated for the children in our community. The rain date for the parade is Monday, December 8th at 6pm. In the event of inclement weather on both days, the parade will be canceled. For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or volunteer details, please contact the Carthage Christmas Parade Committee. 615-735-2093