Santa’s Route 66 Mural City Lights Up!

Recklein Auditorium on N Smith St

Santa’s Route 66 Mural City!

The holidays seem to bring out the best in people. Look around Cuba, Missouri and you will see plenty of evidence of hometown pride, community kindness, and loads of generosity. Every year, the City of Cuba, civic groups, and private citizens work together to bring a holiday illumination project to life. There are countless people to thank – especially to those who have strung lights, climbed on rooftops, and brave the cold to bring us light.

Seasonally, known as Santa’s Route 66 Mural City, the city of Cuba transforms. Our city buildings and highways become lighted beacons of joy for motorists and pedestrians to enjoy. Now an annual event, headed by Nick Sanazaro, brought immense joy to the community when things were looking pretty grim back in 2020. Vowing to continue the tradition, Cuba promises our city lights will bring smiles to all ages.

Annual Light Display

Cuba Visitor Center on Hwy P

The lighted path grows longer each year. This year, the Cuba Visitor Center was added which allows travelers on I-44 to get a glimpse of our lighted splendor. In addition, Viva Cuba Garden, City Hall, the Cuba Senior Center, the Recklein Auditorium, the Crawford County Historical Society Museum, and the Recklein Memorial Library are all part of the picturesque Christmas landscape. To top it all off, there will be the traditional holiday tree at Recklein Commons. This is a great spot for holiday family photos!

You may have noticed this year, many Viva Cuba Volunteers spent mornings and evenings all summer long watering the newly planted trees along Highway 19. Our efforts paid off. We are pleased to say, the trees are thriving and are part of the holiday light display.

Cuba Holiday Parade

Everyone is getting in on the fun! In fact, Cuba retailers, businesses, and residents are lighting up too! The Cuba MO Chamber of Commerce runs an annual Holiday Light Contest. If you live in Cuba and wish to participate, complete the form and submit a photo on Facebook and tag the Cuba Area Chamber of Commerce.

Please invite your family and friends to take a drive through Santa’s Route 66 Mural City this holiday. Embrace the glow and glory of the season just after dusk. While you’re in Cuba, check out the many retailers, eateries, and attractions our town has to offer. To volunteer or make a contribution or learn more about Cuba’s holiday light project for 2023, contact Nick Sanazaro at nicksanazaro@gmail.com.