It’s beginning to look and feel like Christmas around Picayune and members of the Civic Women’s Club of Picayune are working like Santa’s elves to prepare for the annual Christmas Parade and Christmas Pilgrimage.
The civic organization was founded in 1959 by a group of community minded women wanting to make a difference.
Rose Vicknair, along with Vera Beech and Tami Harris are co-chairing this year’s parade.
“Our group reaches out to the community in many ways,” Vicknair said. “We have several committees dedicated to a variety of causes including home life, scholarships, arts, international affairs, education and public issues.”
The parade has been seen on the streets of Picayune for the past 40 years, Harris said.
The money from the entries is used to fund projects, Vicknair said. Anyone can participate in the parade.
Vicknair said the group usually has about 80 entries each year, including floats, first responders, city officials and school bands.
The deadline for entries is Nov. 30. Entries can be found at both Melinda’s locations, Handy Cleaners and the Picayune Chamber of Commerce.
Entries fees range from $25 to $40, depending on the entry, Vicknair said.
The parade will be held Dec. 1 at 6 p.m. and begins at the corner of Kirkwood and Goodyear Blvd. The route continues down Hwy. 11 to Don’s Seafood with a right on Bruce Street, down Main Street to West Canal and back to Goodyear Boulevard.
The club also hosts the annual Christmas Pilgrimage of Homes.
This year the tour features three homes and a church, Vicknair said.
The tour is Dec. 6 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Advanced tickets are $10 and $15 at the door. There will a be a map printed on the tickets to lead visitors to the decorated homes and church.
Tickets are available at both Melinda’s locations, April’s, Picayune Chamber of Commerce and the Glass Porch.
The Civic Women’s Club of Picayune meets the third Thursday of the month at the Senior Center of South Pearl River County. Yearly dues are $40, Harris said.
“It’s a lot of fun and good work,” Harris said. “We are giving back not only to the community but God as well.”