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Celebrate the holiday season at The Great Christmas Light Fight Parade & Activities on Saturday, December 7th! The parade kicks off at 5:00 pm, but the fun begins at 4:00 pm with a story time presented by C.E. Brehm Memorial Public Library at 9th & Broadway! Enjoy cocoa, kettle corn and write a letter to Santa while you wait for the parade!
After the parade families are invited to enjoy cookie decorating, savor free hot cocoa and kettle corn (while supplies last) and share your wishes with Santa in person! Pictures with The Grinch are available too! Explore downtown shops and dining options while soaking in the festive spirit. Best of all, this family-friendly event is completely free and open to everyone!
After the parade enjoy singing by the Jefferson County Girl Scouts, a performance by Centre Stage Studios and the announcement of the Downtown Mt. Vernon Window Decorating Contest and Parade entry winners.

“Mt. Vernon is the perfect backdrop for celebrating the season,” said Angela Schrum, Director of Mt. Vernon Festivals, Inc., “We’re excited to bring our community together for an evening filled with lights, laughter, and holiday cheer.”
Lisa Damron, Vice President of Mt. Vernon Festivals, Inc. adds, “This parade is not just about the lights; it’s about creating memories with loved ones. We encourage everyone to come out, enjoy the festivities, and perhaps even compete for the coveted best-lit parade float award!”

Don’t miss out on this magical evening presented by Mt. Vernon Festivals, Inc. in conjunction with our great sponsors: City of Mt. Vernon, Mt. Vernon Tourism, Downtown Mt. Vernon Development, Kingdom Seed Ministries, Continental Tire, Angels on Assignment, King City Games, United Way of South Central Illinois, Walgreens Distribution, King City Property Brokers, Clearwave Fiber, and C.E. Brehm Memorial Public Library! Gather your friends and family and join us for an unforgettable celebration. Want to showcase your creativity? Sign up today to join the parade!

Additional holiday themed offerings coming soon around Mt. Vernon, Illinois, include:
Polar Express Night at JJ’s: Wear your PJs and watch the movie while you eat. Starts at 5 p.m. and replays all night December 6th!
Christmas Market at The Lights: Discover unique holiday gifts and support local artists on December 6th, 7th, and 8th.
Winter Wonderland Rooms at Scheller Playhouse: Take whimsical holiday photos on December 6th.
Holiday Craft Fair presented by Mt. Vernon Parks: Find special holiday gifts when you visit more than 40 local crafters with handmade wood crafts, jewelry, quilts, blankets, decorations and much more at the Rolland Lewis Building in Veterans Park on December 7th.
Christmas Model Train and Nativity Set Exhibit at Jefferson County Historical Village: Marvel at model train displays and nativity scenes on December 7th, 8th, 14th & 15th.
The Santa Experience at Greentree at Mt. Vernon: Snap a photo with Santa and enjoy holiday treats on December 8th.
Christmas Craft Fundraiser for Dolly Parton Imagination Library: Support early childhood literacy with a festive craft workshop on December 8th.
Santa & Mrs. Claus at El Rancherito: Mr. & Mrs. Claus have dinner reservations at Mt. Vernon El Rancherito from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on December 14th! Stop in to see them and receive a special treat.
Dinner with the Grinch at Scheller Playhouse: Join the Grinch for a special dinner event on December 14th.
Bluford Annual CHRISTmas Parade: Entries may line up at the Otterbein parking lot at 2 PM and the parade will begin at 3 PM. The theme is “Christmas Carols” and all entries are welcome! Bring your tractor, old car, motorcycle, decorated float, side by side, walking group, etc. on December 14th.
Bluford Ruritan Club Christmas Auction & Soup Supper: Enjoy a downhome fun Christmas event. Everyone welcome. Saturday, December 14th. 
Christmas in the Country Red Barn Market: Explore a festive market filled with unique crafts and treats on December 15th.
Winter Wonder Spectacular at Mt. Vernon Baptist Temple: Attend a classical and contemporary Christmas music concert on December 15th.
Music in the Chapel at SSM Good Samaritan Hospital: Enjoy music and songs provided by the local Mennonites on December 16th.
Viking Indoor Market at Venue 37: Discover handmade arts, crafts, and treats from local vendors on Sundays through December 15th.
Meet the Grinch for Tacos: Mt. Vernon El Rancherito on December 20th from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Shop Small Christmas Crawl in Jefferson County: Support local businesses and enter to win a $500 gift card by shopping from November 22nd to December 18th.
The Lights: Immerse yourself in a magical one-mile walking route filled with festive lights, photo stations, and s’mores on select evenings now through December 29th.
For more information and a complete list of holiday events, visit enjoymtvernon.com/events or contact Mt. Vernon Tourism at 618-242-3151.

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Mt. Vernon Tourism is the go-to source for exploring the vibrant charm of Mt. Vernon, Illinois! Our dedicated team is here to showcase the best that our lovely city and its surrounding areas have to offer. Whether you’re looking for cozy hotels, mouthwatering restaurants, exciting attractions, or fun-filled events, we’ve got you covered. Discover hidden gems and local favorites as we guide you through the delightful experiences waiting for you in Mt. Vernon. Join us on this adventure and make unforgettable memories in our wonderful community!