By: Yasmine Malone | December 5, 2025
Clarksdale, MS — Clarksdale welcomed the holiday season in grand fashion Tuesday night as hundreds of residents lined the streets for the annual Christmas Parade, held December 2 at 7 p.m. The much-anticipated tradition brought together more than two dozen local organizations, transforming downtown into a sparkling corridor of lights, music, and festive cheer.
The parade set off from Oakhurst Intermediate Academy, where families had already begun gathering long before nightfall. As the procession made its way through the heart of the city, the leading caravan—featuring the Clarksdale Police Department, Fire Department, and local hospital—signaled the start of the celebration with flashing lights and warm waves to the crowd. Mayor Orlando Paden rode proudly among the front floats, greeting citizens as classic Christmas carols floated through the crisp winter air.
Children squealed with delight as floats rolled by, handing out candy, miniature stockings, and festive knickknacks. From glittering snowmen and playful Grinch costumes to twinkling displays of Santa’s workshop, the parade delivered a whimsical world of holiday magic. Local marching bands added to the excitement, performing crowd-favorite fanfares that echoed between the buildings of downtown Clarksdale.
Parents, elders, and longtime residents stood shoulder to shoulder with energetic kids, all drawn together by the contagious joy of the season. Smiles lit faces as brightly as the Christmas lights strung across the floats, reminding the community of the warmth that comes from gathering, celebrating, and sharing simple moments of wonder.
This year’s parade once again showcased Clarksdale’s enduring spirit—festive, united, and full of heart—as the city proudly stepped into the holiday season.
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