If Thanksgiving is behind us, Christmas is not too far into the future and that means area communities will be celebrating the season with parades.

The Ironton Christmas Parade is scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday.

“They all come out to see their children and grandchildren participate,” Lou Pyles, parade coordinator, said. “It seems like the parade brings families out, brings them downtown. It seems like people are in a good mood, especially when Santa Claus comes through.”

The theme this year is “Jingle Bells.” The parade is sponsored each year by the Ironton Lions Club. Lineup begins at 5 p.m. For the first time, Burlington United Methodist Church, Ironton Physical Therapy and Relay for Life will also have floats.

Pyles said she is pleased with the number of floats in this year’s procession.

“I’m really happy about this, I think floats are what make a good parade and I know these people have put a lot of time and effort into their floats. I’m glad to have them,” she said.

The crowning event of the procession is Santa Claus.

At 7 p.m. Monday, Coal Grove community leaders will gather to officially open this year’s Christmas display at Paul Porter Park. Each year the community park is transformed into a winter wonderland with thousands of lights twinkling from numerous holiday displays.

Attention will shift to Coal Grove again Thursday when the village hosts its annual Christmas parade. The procession will make its way down Marion Pike from the village hall to Paul Porter Park beginning at 6 p.m. Parade-goers will be treated to hot cocoa and cookies afterward.

The city of Russell, Ky., will have its Christmas parade at 7 p.m. Thursday. The lineup begins at 6:30 p.m. Grand marshals will be Ruth Hopkins and Carolyn Buckholz. Both are retired teachers and are active in community affairs.

The theme of this year’s parade will be “Honoring our senior citizens with a hometown Christmas celebration.” Immediately following the parade, there will be a chili supper at the Russell Fire Department. Local entertainer Stephens Salyers will perform. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for photographs.