11/25/2025
Yellville Christmas Parade December 6, 2025
The 2025 Christmas on the Square parade will be led by a familiar and deeply respected community figure. This year we honor Dick Wendel for his 50 years of service to our community.
In 1962 Dick Wendel married Susan Berry, whose ancestors were an instrumental part in the growth and success of Yellville. On his first of many visits to Yellville, he fell in love with the area and the people. At the urging of local leaders to fill a need, Wendel moved his family to Yellville and started North Arkansas Abstract & Title Co. in 1976.
Wendel embraced his new community and became involved in a variety of areas including leadership and volunteer work. Through the years he has served on the Quorum Court, the Marion County Hospital and Nursing Home Boards, Baxter Health Foundation, President of the Chamber of Commerce, and Planning Commission. He also served as a firefighter for the Ralph Caney Volunteer Fire Department for 15 years and continues to serve as Treasurer. As a 40 year member of Mid-Marion County Rotary, he served as President and continues to enjoy working alongside his fellow members which benefit the youth in our area and the community. Wendel is also a long time Elder of The First Presbyterian Church of Yellville.
It is fitting that in the season of giving we honor Dick Wendel. His standard answer when singled out for recognition is to politely refuse however this year was different. This year the parade will honor him, and also his great grandson Theo Labitad by virtue of riding on Great Grandpa’s lap in the parade!
2025 Christmas on the Square takes place December 6th beginning at 2:30 followed by the parade at 5. Line up for the parade begins at 4PM at the Depot Park and will travel down Old Main Street and past the Square. At the end of the parade, Mr. Wendel will close our Christmas celebration by lighting the Christmas trees on the Square. Residents are invited to join in the festivities, line the streets, and celebrate Christmas on the Square.
