It’s something new to Mesquite, but not a new idea. It’s something that is mystical, beautiful and although it can happen any time of year, the Christmas Holiday season is the most common time to find them.

Light Parades.

A dream held by so many will soon come to life in Mesquite thanks to Roberta Franco with the Salvation Army, Gerri Chasko with the Eureka Casino Resort and Mike & Debbie Benham.

“We’ve always wanted a parade of lights,” Franco told the MLN. “We had so much fun doing them in Colorado, Mesquite should be even better. It may be chilly, but not nearly as cold as Colorado.”

The event will begin at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, December 2. The parade participants will be able to set up their float at the LDS parking lot, 100 N. Arrowhead Ln between 3:30-4:30 p.m.

There is a twist to this, however.

The parade will follow the traditional west to east path as with other parades throughout the year, however, it will end at City Hall, 10 E. Mesquite Blvd. Following the parade, Franco is planning a surprise for all in attendance. The annual Christmas Tree Lighting will also take place at City Hall afterwards. Exact details are still being worked out, but for now, this is looking to be an exciting and heart-warming event to kick off the holiday season.

Right now, applications for the event participants are available at the Salvation Army office, 355 W Mesquite Blvd Ste. B50 as well as on the City’s website. The cost per entry is any canned food.

Food gathered from entrants will be split between the Virgin Valley Food Bank and the Salvation Army.

“We feel that with this being a community event, it’s only fair to split equally,” added Franco.

There will be two prizes given for parade participants. The first will be awarded to the float with the best lights and the second will be for the entrant who submits the most food.

A deadline has not been set yet, but those interested need to pick up an application or call 702-346-5116 to express their interest so the organizers can plan accordingly.