Smyrna, Tennessee Christmas Parade: A Tradition Rooted in Community, History, and Faith
Honoring 50 Years of Celebration and the Legacy of Local Historian Marty Luffman
Every December, thousands of families line Lowry Street in Smyrna, Tennessee, to celebrate one of the town’s most 
cherished traditions—the Smyrna Christmas Parade. What many may not realize is that this joyful event, filled with marching bands, church groups, civic organizations, and festive floats, has deep historical roots. Much of that history traces back to citizens whose dedication to preserving community heritage shaped the celebrations we know today—among them, historian and businessman Marty Luffman.
Local County Historian Marty Luffman Named 2025 La Vergne Fall Festival Grand Marshal
A Parade Built on Community Spirit and Faith
The Smyrna Christmas Parade began as a grassroots effort to bring families together during the holidays in a way that reflected small-town Tennessee values.
Over the decades, it has grown into one of Middle Tennessee’s largest and most anticipated seasonal events, attracting churches, schools, first responders, and small businesses.
What sets the parade apart is its focus on community and faith. From high school bands playing Christmas favorites to children’s groups dressed as angels and shepherds, many floats tell part of the Christmas story. The nativity floats created by local churches remain a centerpiece—reminding attendees of the true reason for the season and reflecting the faith that grounds so many in the community. For many families, the parade marks the official beginning of Christmas.
The True Meaning of Christmas
Every December, lights, music, and decorations brighten our streets, but amid the celebration, the heart of Christmas shines through—the birth of Jesus Christ. In a world often consumed by uncertainty, that message of love and hope remains constant. Christmas reminds us that joy can be found even in hardship, that light can break through darkness, and that faith still holds the power to unite us.
This spirit of hope has defined the Smyrna Christmas Parade for fifty years. It celebrates not only community but the enduring truth that despite challenges, faith and generosity can bind neighbors together.
“The angel announces good news of great joy for all people: a Savior, Christ the Lord, is born in Bethlehem.” Luke 2:10–11
Finding Hope Amid Division
As a state representative, it’s easy to see the divisions that trouble our nation—political strife, economic strain, and even acts of violence on our roads. Yet, events like the Smyrna Christmas Parade remind us of our shared humanity. The parade’s partnership with Nourish Food Bank 
is proof of that generosity, with over 100,000 of non‑perishable items donated by parade‑goers each year.
For a few hours each December, political labels fade. Democrats and Republicans, people of all faiths and backgrounds, stand side by side on the same sidewalks, cheering for the same children and contributing to the same cause. This is what faith in action looks like—quiet, sincere, and rooted in love for community. The parade doesn’t just entertain; it feeds families and restores hope.
My friend Kelly Butler has 
been driving along the route each year for 20 years now, it’s easy to remember why public service—and community service—matters. The parade has endured change, recession, and social upheaval—yet it grows stronger because people are hungry for connection. It reminds us that when we focus on what unites us—we can overcome anything that divides us.
The Influence of Historian Marty Luffman
Few embody this spirit more than Marty Luffman—a local historian and visionary businessman—who helped shape Smyrna’s early celebrations. Luffman was among the first to build a business on Nissan Drive—his State Farm Insurance Agency—which marks 50 years in operation this year. He also played a key role in establishing both the Smyrna Christmas Parade and La Vergne’s Old Timers’ Day—the foundation of today’s La Vergne Fall Festival.
Overcoming Tragedy
Sadly, Marty was paralyzed from the waist down after being struck by a reckless driver 5 years ago. Yet his resilience and optimism have inspired many across Rutherford County. Despite the challenges he faces daily, Marty continues to support community traditions with his smile and hope. Events like the Christmas Parade lift his spirits, reminding him—and all of us—what joy, faith, and perseverance truly mean.
His stories (some I even question-lol) have preserved some of the history of Smyrna and La Vergne for future generations. Because of his efforts—and those of town leaders, employees and countless volunteers—these traditions remain vibrant, connecting the past with the present in meaningful ways.
A Living Tradition for Future Generations
As Smyrna continues to grow exponentially, the Christmas Parade serves as a living reminder of the unity that built this community. It brings together longtime residents and new families, showing children what generosity and faith look like in action. Those kids smiling from the sidewalks or marching in the bands are learning that community is something you build—one act of kindness at a time.
Even in a divided world, Smyrna’s parade stands as proof that connection still matters and that faith, love, and hope can bring light into any darkness. Fifty years after its foundation, this celebration remains both a joyful event and a testament to the town’s heart.
and floats roll by, the parade celebrates everyone who made it possible—especially people like Marty Luffman, our mayor, former mayors, elected officials, town staff and volunteers whose life and spirit continue to inspire. His story reminds us that even in the face of tragedy, faith and community can lift us higher. Keeping Christ at the center of the season preserves its true meaning—not only for Smyrna, but for every life it touches.
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