Batesville’s Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting returns Friday, December 4, with this year’s theme, “Stars, Stripes & Holiday Lights,” closing out the country’s 250th anniversary year.

Santa’s Village opens at 4:00 p.m. at Inspiration Park, with storytime with Mrs. Claus, cookie decorating, putt-putt golf, food vendors, and free hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows. Local schools sing carols at 5:00 p.m., and the parade steps off at 5:30 p.m. with illuminated floats, marching bands, decorated vehicles, and dance teams, ending with Santa himself.

The tree lighting and Mayor’s Proclamation follow the parade, and a free showing of A Christmas Story at the Gibson Theatre follows, sponsored by the Mayor’s Youth Council and Kiwanis. Chamber gift certificates will be awarded for Most Illuminated, Best Themed, and Most Creative entries.