Canton and LaBelle Christmas Parades and Events

Canton’s Parade of Lights will be begin on Dec. 7 with a 5 p.m. kickoff ceremony at Central Park with a bonfire, tree lighting, caroling, hot dogs, and hot chocolate. At 5:30 p.m. there will be a free Children’s movie, “Prep and Landing” at the Lewis Street Playhouse and “Christmas Jam” at the Fourth Street Warehouse (also after the parade). The Parade of Lights will begin at 6 p.m. Attendees can meet Santa at the Lewis Street Playhouse after the parade. Contact Anne Fryer at 217-248-9755 to participate in the Parade. National Lampoon Christmas Vacation will play at the Lewis Street Playhouse at 7 p.m. on Dec. 8, and 9, and at 2 p.m. son Dec. 10 and 17. There will be a Cousin Eddie contest (character in the movie) at the Dec. 8 showing of the movie. Sign up is at 6:30 p.m. and contest at 6:45 p.m.

Crossroads Country Opry with special guest Susie Job will be at the Lewis Street Playhouse on Dec. 2 at 7 p.m.. There is an admission charge.

The Canton in Lights Contest will give awards for two categories: Best Residential Displays and Best Commercial/Business Displays. You may nominate your own location or your neighbors at Canton City Hall or by email to dhesse@bankofmonticello.com until Dec. 18. Contest forms located also at Golden Ruler, Bank of Monticello Canton branch.Those nominated will be judged and winners announced on Dec. 22. The winners will be awarded cash prizes.

The annual LaBelle Depot Christmas activities begin Dec. 9 with the Depot open at 10 a.m. and will feature Country Store Crafts, sweet treats and silent auction. Bingo will be from 1 to 3 p.m. The Lighted Parade will be that evening with line-up at 5:30 and the parade begins at 6 p.m. Everyone is welcome to bring a float or entry. Santa will visit with children after the parade at the Depot.

The Depot will be open on Dec. 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and includes the bake sale and vendor items. Silent auction ends at 1 p.m. For more information contact Judy Turpin at 217-242-7899; Dianna Sparrow at 217-242-1066 or Joan Rife at 660-462-3699.