What began in the mid-1970s as a small-town event organized by the West Monroe Jaycees has become one of the community’s most cherished gatherings. When the Jaycees were ready to pass the torch, the mayor’s office turned to the Kiwanis Club to keep the tradition alive. They’ve done just that — with only one pause during the COVID year — now celebrating the parade’s 52nd season.

At its heart, the Kiwanis Christmas Parade isn’t just an event — it’s a reflection of the people who make it happen. Booth says the parade thrives because of the partnerships between both cities across the Ouachita River. “We can’t survive one without the other,” he said. “Both mayors — Friday Ellis and Staci Mitchell — are big supporters. So are the police, fire departments, and emergency services. Everyone wants this parade to happen.”

Each year, families, schools, churches, and civic groups come together to create floats that fill the streets with color, lights, and imagination. The Krewe of Janus, McGuire Methodist Church, and local schools like Jack Hayes Elementary and Shady Grove Elementary are just a few of the many who take part.

Booth says seeing children get the chance to be part of the parade is one of the best parts.

Volunteers are the backbone of the event. Around 10 to 20 Kiwanis members help coordinate the parade, but the door is open for anyone to join in. “Sometimes you’ve got to put a little bit of the community in if you want something great back out of it,” Booth said. “We’d love for people to get involved.”

Preparation begins in early fall. The Kiwanis Club secures permits, organizes entries, and plans logistics for more than 75 parade participants. “Day of is when all the magic happens,” Booth said. “Floats line up, judges make their rounds, and kids are everywhere. It’s hectic but incredible.”

Booth’s favorite part comes just before the parade rolls out. “I love lining up floats and talking with the kids,” he said. “Kiwanis is all about kids — improving their lives and giving them joy. There’s no better way to do that than a parade with Santa leading the way.”

Each year’s parade has a new theme that sparks creativity across the community. This year’s is “Back to Bethlehem,” a nod to the season’s deeper meaning and a chance for participants to bring their own interpretation to life. Booth enjoys seeing how each group puts its own spin on the theme.

Past themes have been just as memorable. “We once did ‘Ugly Christmas Sweater,’ and everyone joined in — no matter their background or beliefs,” Booth said. “It was just fun, and that’s what brings people together.”

Even after all these years, the goal remains the same — celebrate, connect, and give back. “We usually break even or go a little in the red,” Booth said with a laugh. “But it’s worth every penny for the enjoyment it brings.”

For Booth, the parade represents more than just floats and fanfare — it’s a living reminder of what makes Monroe-West Monroe special. “Community traditions like this keep us grounded,” he said. “They remind us that this is a great place to be, a great place to raise your kids.”

When he looks out across the crowd on parade day, Booth feels gratitude.

As the Kiwanis Club prepares to roll again, Booth hopes the next generation will carry the torch forward. “We’ve been serving kids in this community since 1921,” he said. “And we’re not stopping anytime soon.”