The City of Port Arthur is gearing up to show their Christmas spirit with the annual Lighted Cultural Parade on Saturday.

Port Arthur’s own Deandre Nico is set to be parade marshal and to receive the keys to the city from Mayor Derrick Freeman.

But that’s not all.

Christie Whitley-Ned with the city of Port Arthur, said there are 70 parade entries including motorcycles, dance groups, schools, International Brotherhood of Electrical workers, social and civic clubs, churches and the Chick Fil A cow will be on hand.

Line-up begins at 4:30 at the Carl Parker Center on the Lamar State College Port Arthur campus, 1500 Procter St. From there the parade will travel down Procter Street and disband at Houston Avenue.

A set of judges will judge for the best float, best in show and most creative.

But that’s just the beginning of the festivities.

The pavilion will be a busy spot. That’s where Deandre Nico will receive the keys to the city. There will be music, food and other vendors, Memorial High School Choir will perform and there will be appearances by Elsa and Anna from Disney’s Frozen, The Grinch and Santa.

The weather may come into play with this yea’s holiday event. The forecast for Saturday shows a 100 percent chance of rain but Whitley-Ned is being optimistic.

“We have faith in our weather man. He said it would end at noon then clear up,” Whitley-Ned said. “It will be a little cold but hey, it’s Christmas.”

Toys and more

Local businessman Levy Barnes Jr. is teaming up with The Fancy Step Ryders — a local trail riding group —for free bikes and toys for children and a car show, also to be held Saturday in downtown Port Arthur. Potential recipients of the toys and bikes have been notified in advance.

Barnes said the bike-giveaway will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., there will also be a petting zoo, bounce house and strolling cartoon characters.

The Fancy Step Ryders are set to bring their horses for the kids to see and ride, he said.

A car show is scheduled for 2 to 4 p.m. at the pavilion.

There will be music throughout the event.

Sunday in the Park

The holiday cheer will continue at Popeye Holmes Park, 525 Lakeshore Drive on the courthouse lawn in Port Arthur. Food, music and entertainment is set for 4 to 6 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. will feature First Sixth Street Baptist Church and percussionist James Dixon of Houston will perform.

Bring your lawn chair.