LOUISIANA, Mo. — Three organizations in Louisiana have joined forces to make the holidays merry and bright this year with several activities and events.

Louisiana Community Betterment, the Louisiana Chamber of Commerce and the Unified Economic Development Council have announced a slate of activities and events that begin today (Saturday, Nov. 23). Folks are encouraged to sign up and take part in the plans.

Winter Wonderland activities will take place in addition to Small Business Saturday on Nov. 30. Babysitting services will be provided at the Louisiana Elementary School from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. It is sponsored by the Interact, National Honor Society and FFA organizations. A donation of $5 per child ($15 maximum) is expected. Participants should also bring a sack lunch. Snacks will be provided. Pre-registration is required.

The holiday lighted parade and tree lighting ceremony will take place that evening. The theme of the parade this year is “It’s a Marshmallow World.” Lineup will take place at Sunset Park at 5 p.m. and the parade will take place at 6 p.m.

The parade will conclude at 4th Street where the new Christmas tree will be lit following the parade. Vendors and parade entries are still being sought.

A Christmas scavenger hunt kicks off on Saturday, Nov. 23 and will run through Saturday, Dec. 7. Two winners will be announced at the conclusion of the hunt.

A children’s painting and refreshment event will be held on Dec. 7 in the PCMH cafeteria from 2-3:30 p.m. Deadline to sign up is Monday, Dec. 2 and a $10 registration fee must be paid.

An adult wreath-making class with a twist will also be held on Saturday, Dec. 7 at the Fourth Street Event Center from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Entry form and fee must be turned in on Monday, Dec. 2.

Children’s pictures with Santa and a holiday costume contest will take place at the Twin Pike Family YMCA on Sunday, Dec. 8. The event will take place from 2-4 p.m.

The Louisiana Historical Museum will once again hold the annual Chuch Walk and soup supper on Sunday, Dec. 8 starting at 3 p.m,.

A cooking baking and gingerbread home competition will be held. Entries will be judged in the cafeteria of Pike County Memorial Hospital on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 1:30-3 p.m. Sign up concludes on Dec. 7.

Find sign up and other information about the events on the Louisiana Chamber of Commerce website.