TUPELO, Miss. (WTVA) – The lead for the 78th Reed’s Tupelo Christmas Parade has been revealed.

The CREATE Foundation and its president, Mike Clayborne, will lead the parade for 2026.

The CREATE Foundation has been serving for 54 years, supporting the community through giving and grants. Clayborne is in his 30th year as president.

Reed’s Chairman Jack Reed said the CREATE Foundation was chosen for its impact on the region.

“Every year we look to highlight some organization or person or people who really are making a real difference for the quality of place, quality of life in Tupelo, northeast Mississippi,” Reed said.

Clayborne shared his gratitude for the honor.

“It means a lot because the work we do truly does try to make life better for the people of northeast Mississippi,” Clayborne said.

This year’s parade theme is “It’s a Wonderful Life.” The parade is set for Friday, Dec. 11 at 6 p.m. in downtown Tupelo.

A link on how to apply to be in the parade is available at tupelomainstreet.com.