The holidays are a magical time across Southeast Missouri, and our local towns know how to celebrate! From festive parades and light displays to cozy markets and small-town traditions, there’s no shortage of ways to make lasting memories this season.
Whether you’re in Poplar Bluff, Dexter, Doniphan, or Qulin, here are some of the most anticipated holiday events in Southeast Missouri that bring our communities together every year.
Poplar Bluff Christmas Parade
📍 Downtown Poplar Bluff, MO
🗓️ December 6, 2025
🎟️ Free Admission
Get into the holiday spirit at the beloved Poplar Bluff Christmas Parade, organized by the Greater Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce. Watch as local floats, marching bands, and Santa himself light up the downtown streets.
Tip: Arrive early to grab a good viewing spot near Main Street and stop by Myrtle’s Place Café for a warm drink before the parade begins.
Dexter Downtown Christmas & Tree Lighting
📍 Dexter, MO – Downtown Square
🗓️ November 29, 2025
🎟️ Free Family Event
Kick off the season with the Dexter Downtown Christmas Celebration hosted by the Dexter Chamber of Commerce. Enjoy local carolers, food trucks, and the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony that transforms the town square into a winter wonderland.
🎄 Pro Tip: Pair this event with a visit to the Historic Dexter Welcome Center Depot and Museum to learn more about the town’s festive traditions.
Doniphan Riverfront Lights & Holiday Market
📍 Doniphan, MO – Riverfront Park
🗓️ December 13–14, 2025
🎟️ Free
Doniphan’s Riverfront Park becomes a glowing holiday escape featuring handmade gifts, local vendors, and thousands of twinkling lights reflecting off the Current River.
✨ Follow the City of Doniphan Events Calendar for schedule updates.
Christmas in Qulin: Small-Town Celebration
📍 Qulin, MO – Main Street
🗓️ December 7, 2025
This charming small-town celebration features a Christmas Parade, craft fair, and Santa visit, all organized by the Qulin Lions Club. Local families gather for an evening of laughter, holiday treats, and festive lights.
🎁 Perfect for families looking to support local schools and small businesses while making lasting memories.
Neelyville Community Christmas Festival
📍 Neelyville School Gymnasium & Park
🗓️ December 14, 2025
A heartwarming annual event hosted by local schools and volunteers, the Neelyville Christmas Festival includes a live nativity, bake sale, student performances, and photos with Santa.
🍪 Local Tip: Stop by MNP Taylor’s Stateline Travel Center & Longhorn Grill in Neelyville on your way for fresh-baked holiday cookies!
Celebrate Local Joy and Community Spirit
These events are just a few of the ways Southeast Missouri shines during the holiday season. Whether you’re attending a small-town tree lighting or exploring a riverfront light show, the warmth of our communities is what truly makes this area special.
🏡 Borrowed Time Real Estate proudly serves Poplar Bluff, Dexter, Doniphan, Qulin, Neelyville, and surrounding Southeast Missouri towns — connecting neighbors, homes, and heart.
Looking to make Southeast Missouri home this holiday season? Explore our available listings or contact our team to find your perfect place before the new year.