The Leesville Main Street District in downtown Leesville presents their annual Christmas Market on Saturday, December 9.  The day will be full of family fun, beginning with the Pilot Club’s Annual Reindeer Run at 8 a.m.  Participants are encouraged to dress in costumes. For more information on the run, go to the Pilot Club Facebook page.  Vendors with a super selection of gift items will be set up at the Third Street Market from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.  The market will also have kid activities and food trucks to feed your hungry family.

The Vernon Parish Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade will roll through the downtown area at 5:30 p.m.  The theme for this year’s event is “Angels Among Us” and will honor first responders and emergency personnel for their efforts, not only during the recent wildfires but for their everyday service to the Vernon Parish community.  Don’t miss this colorful, light-filled parade, which ends with Santa and Mrs. Claus.  Be sure to bring your lawn chairs and loot bags for goodies received from all the units.

CPKS HOLIDAY EXPRESS TRAIN

Leesville is once again fortunate to be on the schedule for a stop by the CPKS Holiday Express Train.  This elaborately decorated set of rail cars carries characters and goodies for all area children and will arrive in Leesville at the train depot at 4 p.m. on Sunday December 10.  It should take them about an hour to be ready to see children.  They will not leave until all kids have gone through the train.  This can take time, so parents be prepared to wait a while.  Your kids will enjoy going through the cars and meeting the characters on board.

This event is free and open to the public.  The West Cenla Shrine Club is scheduled to sell hot chocolate and drinks during the train’s stay.