Springfield to combine 2 holiday traditions in one big event
Springfield is combining two of its biggest holiday traditions into one downtown celebration Nov. 21, bringing the Christmas Parade and Mayor's Tree Lighting Holiday Show together for the first time. The City of Springfield and Downtown Springfield Association are partnering on Downtown for the Holidays, according to a community announcement. The free celebration will feature a parade, live music, Santa Claus, the Merry Market, holiday treats and the lighting of the city's Christmas tree. St. Louis Children's at CoxHealth is the presenting sponsor. The activities will be centered around Park Central Square and the downtown neighborhood, with major events beginning at noon and continuing through the tree lighting at about 7 p.m. The partnership is designed to create a more connected holiday experience while encouraging residents and visitors to explore downtown restaurants, retailers and other businesses, according to the announcement. "At St. Louis Children’s at CoxHealth, our mission is to do what’s right for kids, and that extends beyond the walls of our facilities," Sarah Becker, vice president and administrator of St. Louis Children’s at CoxHealth, said in the announcement. "As we continue expanding nationally recognized pediatric care across southwest Missouri, we’re proud to support events like Downtown for the
