Breckenridge Texan

The holiday season is set to arrive in downtown Breckenridge this weekend, with the return of the “Mingle & Jingle” event. Hosted by the Breckenridge Chamber of Commerce, the two-day event scheduled for Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21-22, features a tree lighting ceremony, live theater, a Christmas tree decorating contest and the launch of a Chamber-sponsored shopping initiative.

Friday Festivities

The celebration begins Friday evening with the community Christmas Tree Lighting at 6 p.m. in Foundation Park in the heart of downtown Breckenridge. Following the lighting, attendees can explore a variety of holiday activities, including pictures with Santa and late-night shopping at local businesses.

Entertainment for the evening includes a special performance by the Buckaroo Theatre. Directed by Breckenridge High School teacher Cassie Johnson, the group will present “Christmas Through the Ages” under the marquee of The National Theatre, 116 E. Walker, immediately following the tree lighting. Additionally, musician Shea Abshier is scheduled to perform from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Clark Real Estate, 227 W. Walker St. Also, Copperleaf Properties, 101 E. Walker, will be serving free Dippin’ Dots ice cream.

Shopping Spree Extravaganza

Friday night marks the official kickoff of the Holiday Shopping Spree Extravaganza, an initiative designed to encourage residents to shop locally.

According to the Chamber, for every $25 spent at participating businesses, shoppers will receive one ticket entry into weekly drawings. The Chamber plans to award a total of $5,000 in “Chamber Bucks” over the next five weeks. The prizes can be redeemed at participating locations.

“This is your chance to support the incredible businesses that make Breckenridge shine and win big just for shopping local this holiday season,” organizers stated in event materials.

Tree Decorating Competition

The Stephens County Courthouse will host the Mingle & Jingle Tree Decorating Competition. Local businesses and residents are invited to decorate live trees for a chance to win cash prizes for the top three displays.

Decorating begins Nov. 20 and must be completed by 4 p.m. on Nov. 21. Judging will be conducted by KTAB and local judges, alongside a “popular vote” by community members. The entry fee is $50, which includes a live tree and stand. Businesses located within the “brick to brick” downtown area may utilize their own trees for the competition while paying the standard entry fee.

Organizers note that spots are limited and decorations must be non-edible, family-friendly, and securely attached.

For registration information regarding the tree competition or further event details, residents are encouraged to contact the Breckenridge Chamber of Commerce at 254-559-2301.

Saturday Events

The festivities continue on Saturday, Nov. 22, with the Texas Tamale Championship and more opportunities for local holiday shopping downtown. Families can also attend “Pancakes and Photos with Santa” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Blackhorse Mercantile & Cafe, 103 W. Walker St. The event will be free and open to the public.

‘Cowboy Christmas’ Parade

The holiday festivities continue in December with the annual parade, which features the theme “A Cowboy Christmas.” The Breckenridge Chamber of Commerce is calling on local businesses, schools, and organizations to participate in the event scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13.

Organizers are encouraging participants to submit entry forms early to assist with lineup organization and safety planning.

Completed entry forms must be received by the Breckenridge Chamber of Commerce at 100 East Elm Street no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5. Forms are available at the Chamber office.

Rules and Regulations

Parade officials have issued specific guidelines to ensure safety during the event:

• Candy distribution: For the safety of attendees, items may not be thrown from floats. Participants wishing to distribute candy must walk alongside their float and hand it directly to the public.
• Supervision: Entries featuring children under the age of 19 must strictly maintain a ratio of one supervising adult for every five children.
• Prohibited items: Alcohol is strictly prohibited for all entries.

Judging and Lineup

Participants electing to be judged will be evaluated based on creativity, originality, and their interpretation of the “Cowboy Christmas” theme. While the parade begins at 6 p.m., floats being judged are required to line up by 4:45 p.m.. All other entries must be in position at the designated staging area on Liveoak Street by 5 p.m.

(Photo by Tony Pilkington/Breckenridge Texan)