Downtown Lighting Ceremony November 25th
Everyone is invited to Main Street for the Downtown Lighting Celebration on Monday, November 25. This year, there are numerous activities planned with Main Street closed from 2nd Street to 7th Street for people to enjoy a fun evening with their friends and family.
Festivities begin at 5 p.m., with Parks and Recreation staff hosting crafts for the kids at Spiva Park, 4th and Main Street. Enjoy holiday music, cookies and cocoa, while waiting for Santa’s arrival at 5:30. Take a picture with Santa or strike a pose at a festive photo spot.
Gather near Spiva Park for the official lighting at 6 p.m. A wonderful light show set to music will illuminate the park and spread holiday cheer. Other activities continue the evening’s fun as you stroll along Main Street, with progressive holiday festivities taking place from 4th to 7th Street. At 6:30 p.m. a holiday-themed movie will be shown on Main Street near City Hall at 6th Street.
A holiday window decorating contest, hosted by Downtown Joplin Alliance (DJA), also kicks off that evening, so be sure pick up a map and ballot for the Holiday Window Display Contest between participating downtown merchants. These will be available at Spiva Park. These also serve as a “passport” and can be stamped by downtown restaurants and shops you visit. Some of these will be open late that evening for shopping and dining during this holiday event. After your passport is completed, it can be turned in for a prize, offered through DJA.
Enjoy progressive holiday festivities as you stroll down Main Street and view the windows to note your favorites for the contest. Ballots and passports can be turned in at the main lobby of Joplin City Hall, also a participant in the contest this year. Children and adults are encouraged to pause for some holiday coloring, list making and cocoa and cookies as you drop off your items, and then head out to the movie on Main Street. This holiday evening celebration will conclude at approximately 8:30 p.m.
For more information, www.visitjoplinmo.com or call the Joplin Convention and Visitors Bureau at 417-625-4789. Window ballots will be accepted until December 13 and can be turned in at the Joplin CVB office in City Hall.