Christmas on the River: A community labor of love and light
In 2014, Christmas on the River celebrated 43 years in Demopolis.
For 44 years, Demopolis has celebrated the holiday season with Christmas on the River.
What started as a small river parade among friends has evolved into a four-day celebration with two parades, parties, historic home tours, an arts and crafts fair and a 5K race.
“Christmas on the River could not happen without the full support of the community and volunteers,” said Susanna Naisbett, Christmas on the River chairman. “Volunteers put their time and talents into it each year to make it a success”
Alabama Power employees and their children are among the volunteers dedicated to making Christmas on the River memorable every year.
During the barbecue competition Dec. 18, Greene County Steam Plant employees cooked, decorated a tent and helped with setup. Volunteers included Keith Morrow, Paul Taylor, Jason Arledge, Jesse Johnson, Teresa Bryant, Bubba Bryant, Marie Wilson and Elaine Fetzer.
Paul Willingham, plant control operator at Greene County, was in charge of the cook-off this year, bringing in 56 teams – the most since the barbecue competition started in 1992.
While Christmas on the River is a time to celebrate the holiday season and the city of Demopolis, it is also a chance to give back to the community. This is evident through the Jingle Bell Run 5K that brings runners from Demopolis, Tuscaloosa and surrounding areas.
Aimee Reynolds, Marketing specialist in Demopolis, and the volunteers from the Alabama Power Service Organization have been involved with the Jingle Bell Run for the past eight years.
The Saturday morning 5K has grown to more than 100 runners and this year benefited the Demopolis Food Pantry.
“The Jingle Bell Run has become a staple for Christmas on the River,” said Reynolds. “It is a great way to support local charities and benefit our own health and wellness.”
The economic impact of this annual event is also something to be proud of.
Demopolis Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Ashley Coplin said the 2015 Christmas on the River had an estimated 40,000 attendees from across the United States.
“This event is so important to our community because it puts a spotlight on Demopolis and Marengo County and the rich history we have,” said Naisbett. “It gives our economy a boost and helps small businesses in the community.”
“The name ‘Demopolis’ in Greek means ‘City of the People,’” explained Coplin. “What’s missing in our namesake is the kind of people we have here in Demopolis – ones with big hearts, civic minds and spirit, and a love for each other and those that continue to visit our city.”
