Mangham’s Merry Christmas Festival shines bright

Mangham was alive with holiday cheer on Saturday as the town celebrated its annual Merry Christmas Festival.

The day-long event began with the Stitched In Faith Quilt Shop’s annual Quilt Show at the Community Center and the vendor fair at the Venue on Main from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., followed by a festive evening parade and dazzling fireworks.

The Quilt Show drew a crowd of admirers, with Joan Rhodes’ beautiful “Silver Shores” quilt earning first-place honors. Shoppers browsed vendor booths filled with handmade quilts, baked goods, jewelry, woodworks, Mary Kay cosmetics, bowl cozies, herbal candles, room sprays and more— perfect for holiday gifting or treating oneself.

Families flocked to Mangham Hardware, where Santa and Mrs. Claus greeted children (and even a few pets) for photos and free prints, with cookies for all—including Santa himself. The Smooth Riders Grab-n-Go Food Truck kept festival-goers fueled throughout the day with wings and other favorites.

As evening fell, the Mangham Christmas Parade lit up the streets. This year’s Mr. and Ms. Mangham Merry Christmas were Katy Smith and Blake Pierce of Mangham High School, while Tammy Spillers served as Grand Marshal. The First Baptist Church Archibald float took home top honors, joining more than two dozen parade participants including the Mangham High School Dragons football team, cheerleaders, the MHS Band and a colorful lineup of floats, cars, trucks and golf carts.

The celebration concluded with a spectacular fireworks display hosted by Mangham Baptist Church, sending families home with hearts full of joy and holiday spirit.

Organizers extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and helped make the festival a success, saying, “It warms our hearts to see everyone enjoy the holidays and come to our little town to shop, eat and celebrate together. We hope we bring joy to your hearts during this time of year. We appreciate each and every one of you.”