The build-up to Christmas continues this week with some of Smithfield’s most beloved and well-attended holiday events — the Christmas Parade and Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 8. The day is capped off with a performance by the U.S. Navy Fleet Forces Band. 

Breakfast

The day begins with the Smithfield Kiwanis Breakfast with Santa, 8-10 a.m. at The Smithfield Center. Breakfast is pancakes and children have an opportunity to share their Christmas list with Santa. The cost is $5 per person and children age 2 and under are free. 

Parade

Breakfast is followed by Smithfield’s Christmas Parade, beginning at 10:30 a.m. in downtown Smithfield. The theme is “It’s a Wonderful Life,” with grand marshal and Smithfield native Jeffrey Blount, Emmy-award winning television director and writer. The parade begins at the intersection of Main Street and Underwood Lane, proceeds down Main Street, left on North Mason Street, left on Grace Street, with judging near the intersection of Institute Street. 

Concert

Later that evening, enjoy the holiday sounds of the Navy’s Fleet Forces Band beginning at 7 p.m. at The Smithfield Center. The concert is free and includes favorites such as, “Christmas Time is Here,” “Sleigh Ride,” Chanukah Celebration” and a Christmas sing-a-long.

Other events that day include arts events at the Arts Center @ 319, the Smithfield VFW Post 8545 community breakfast, Santa in Carrollton and a performance of the Smithfield Little Theatre’s “It’s a Wonderful Life.”