November 30, 2017 (Photos - Album1, Album2) - The annual Joaquin Christmas Festival was held Saturday, November 18 complete with parade and Santa and Mrs. Claus.
There was a really large turnout as the day was sunny and beautiful if a tad windy at times. There were vendors set up around the square and we certainly hope they had a good day as well. The air was filled with the offerings of the food vendors that was wonderful. The kids had so many free activities and goodie bags that all the parents and grandparents took home tired little ones at the end of the day. A Bounce House as well as a Bounce Obstacle Course as well as games were set up adjacent to the vendor booths and the Santa House. The lights and decorations around the huge Dellinger Christmas Tree were beautiful. Of course, the Santa House was beautifully decorated with fencing, lights and the jolly pair themselves.
A cake walk was held several times during the day to benefit the American Cancer Foundation. There were many, many cakes, pies and cookies donated for the walks and many enjoyed the sweets of local bakers. Many thanks to all who donated goodies.
Entertainment ran all day with local talent singing, the children’s choir from Bethlehem Baptist Church and the professional duo Broken Vessels. That pair did so many beautiful gospel songs, Christmas songs and good time singing as well as announced activities. We were grateful for their efforts.
The artists of Joaquin Schools showed off their talents at the art show in the Senior Citizens Building. Thanks to all who participated.
The parade was especially enjoyable as the band from Joaquin High School showed up and showed out. They were dressed in holiday attire and played beautifully. There were five churches with beautifully decorated floats and everyone had a chance to honor our Grand Marshall Margie Anderson.
There was a huge raffle held as well as an auction to benefit Joaquin Christian Services organized and run by the East Texas Chopper Guys. This motorcycle group also held a bike and car show and also raffled off a trailer. Dennis Leggett ran the auction and called out winning ticket numbers for the raffle. Around $7,500 was raised for this local charity.
There were so many things donated this year by businesses in Joaquin, Logansport, Carthage and Center. The volunteer help was evident everywhere we turned. As is always the case at Joaquin festivities, a good time was had by all.
