Christmas spirit will stretch from morning to night across Okmulgee County this Saturday, as Beggs, Morris and Henryetta each host their annual holiday parades-creating a full, festive day perfect for families, shoppers and parade lovers.
— Beggs Jingle Bell Day: Holiday
Traditions & 125th Birthday
The celebration begins bright and early in Beggs, where the city’s beloved Jingle Bell Day brings together shopping, food, music, Santa photos and one of the biggest parades in the region.
Shoppers still have four more days to sup- port Beggs businesses and receive Jingle Bell tickets, which automatically enter them to win $250, $500 or the grand prize of $1,000.
Winners must be present at the 2:15 p.m. drawing on Main Street.
— Schedule of Events
• 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Vendor Event at First Baptist Church – Local artisans, small businesses, seasonal goods, gifts and holiday treats will be available throughout the day. It’s an ideal time for last-minute Christmas shopping.
• 10 a.m. – Beggs Christmas Parade – The day begins with one of the area’s most anticipated holiday parades on Main Street. Participants include classic cars, tractors, wagons, carriages, motorcycles, bicycles, trucks and more. Those wishing to participate must register online or pick up paper forms at Club House Leathers and Accessories or Kanokie Coffeehouse. Organizers emphasized this is the week when magic happens, and encouraged everyone to help create the largest parade yet in honor of Beggs’ 125th year.
• 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. – Pictures with Santa – Families can stop by the Kanokie Coffeehouse courtyard for photographs and holiday visits with Santa Claus.
• 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Famous Chicken Noodle Dinner and Christmas Bazaar – A beloved Beggs tradition returns to First United Methodist Church, with homemade chicken and noodles served with vegetables, a roll, a drink and dessert. Adults cost $8, and children 10 and under are $4. The accompanying Christmas Bazaar will include handmade crafts, baked goods, Miss Janie’s well-known cheese balls and season treats and gift items. This annual event is a community favorite and typically draws a large crowd.
• 12-2 p.m. – Live Music by Berrik Brumely. Guests can enjoy live performances at the Kanokie Coffeehouse courtyard as they stroll and shop downtown.
• 2 p.m. – Beggs 125th Birthday Town Photo – Residents are encouraged to participate in a community photo on Main Street to commemorate Beggs’ 125-year history.
• 2:15 p.m. – Jingle Bell Ticket Winner Announcement – Three winners will be drawn on Main Street for cash prizes of $250, $500 and $1,000. Winners must be present.
— Morris Lions Club Parade set for 2 p.m.
Following the morning celebration in Beggs, families can head to Morris, where the Morris Lions Club Annual Christmas Parade begins at 2 p.m.
Parade lineup begins at 1 p.m. at Morris Assembly of God.
A special cash drawing for the kids will also be featured.
Known for its community charm and enthusiastic participants, the Morris parade continues to be a cherished annual tradition.
— Henryetta to close out night with lighted parade
The day concludes in Henryetta, where the community will gather downtown for its evening Chamber of Commerce Christmas parade. Illuminated floats, colorful lights, music and holiday characters will bring the evening to life.
Henryetta’s night parade has become a regional favorite, offering families a festive and memorable way to end the day.
During the Henryetta Christmas Parade at 6:30 p.m., the Henryetta Rotary Club will have a mobile hot cocoa bar to warm up parade-goers. Expect holiday spirit by the cupful.
The Henryetta Mistletoe Market, sponsored by the Henryetta Chamber of Commerce, continues Fridays from 5-9 p.m., Saturdays from 1-9 p.m. and Sundays from 1-6 p.m.
A special treat is coming! This Sunday from 2-3 p.m., free cookies with Santa will be available at the Henryetta Chamber of Commerce Mistletoe Market, located at 5th & Trudgeon.
Jennifer Corbin of Sweet Nomnom’s is hosting this free community event.
“This is a free community event, because giving back is at the heart of Sweet NomNom’s Bakery,” Corbin said. “Bring the kids, take pictures, grab a cookie and enjoy a little Christmas magic with us. I cannot wait to see everyone there!”
-Combined with shopping opportunities, hometown meals, live music and family activities, this Saturday promises to be one of the most festive days of the holiday season.
Families are encouraged to bundle up, bring friends and neighbors and celebrate the spirit of Christmas across Okmulgee County.