On Saturday, December 7, 2024, the streets of Lakewood will once again buzz with excitement and generosity as FaLaLa Lakewood returns for its fifth year. Founded by four dedicated Lakewood moms—Kelsey Hills, Gable Roby, Jill Scovell, and Jessie Stanton—this beloved holiday parade has grown into a powerful tradition that supports the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center (DCAC). Since 2020, the event has brought together families to collect new, unwrapped toys for DCAC’s Holiday of Hope campaign, providing gifts to children affected by abuse.

What began during the height of the pandemic as a safe way to give back alongside their children has blossomed into a community-wide effort. “The vision for FaLaLa Lakewood has always been to create a way for our families to serve together,” explain the founders. “We wanted our kids to see and experience the joy of giving.”

This year, over 2,500 neighbors are expected to line the streets as Santa and his elves make their way through Lakewood from 2:00 to 5:30 p.m., collecting toys and spreading holiday cheer. The parade will conclude at Lakewood Elementary, where families can join in the celebration by dropping off toys and meeting Santa.

The FaLaLa Lakewood team encourages the community to get involved by bringing new, unwrapped toys to the parade route or the final stop. For those looking to contribute further, sponsorships start at $1,500, and personal donations are always appreciated. Since its launch, FaLaLa Lakewood has collected more than $225,000 in gifts and toys for DCAC, helping to make the holidays brighter for thousands of children and their families. The goal for 2024 is to continue growing the impact, reaching more children than ever before.

“This event has become a special tradition in our neighborhood, bringing us together in the spirit of giving,” says the team. “It’s incredible to see how generous and supportive the Lakewood community has been, and we’re proud to continue this tradition.”

FaLaLa Lakewood’s impact goes beyond just the toys collected—it’s a story of a community rallying together to make a difference. The parade highlights the importance of spreading joy and hope to those who need it most, especially during the holiday season.

To join in the fun and support FaLaLa Lakewood, follow them on Instagram at @falalalakewood or visit their Facebook event page for more details on the parade route and how to get involved. Let’s continue to show up for the children of DCAC and make this holiday season one filled with hope.

***PULL QUOTES***

“The real meaning of Christmas is remembering to share the things that YOU want yourself with others. It makes me so happy to get to be the angel for someone else.” Parker Roby, age 13

“I love bringing the neighborhood together, and spreading the idea of giving to those in need.” - Hyde Hills, 12

“I’m so proud of how over time we’ve grown how many gifts we give to the children at DCAC.” - Remy Hills, 10

***SIDE BAR***

DCAC serves children ages 0-17 but some of their most requested items are for pre-teen and teens indicated Bold with the * below:

Board Games* • Infant Toys • Baby Dolls • Leap Frog • V-Tech Items • Arts/Crafts/Kits* • Adult Coloring Books/SketchPads/Journals* • Fine Point Markers/Gel Pens* • Sports Balls - All Sizes* • Remote Control Cars • NERF products • Action Figures* • LEGO* • Barbie* • Thomas The Train • Paw Patrol • Jurassic Park • Skateboards with Helmets* • Bikes with Helmets* • Scooters/Ripsticks with Helmets* • Fuzzy Blankets* • Reading Books - All Levels • Bluetooth Portable Speakers* • Hot Hair Tools* • Fashion & Hair Accessories* • Bath & Body Works/Dove Gift Sets* • Old Spice/Axe Gift Sets* • Perfumes/Cologne • Purses* • Jewelry/Watches* • Wallets* • Gift Cards: Amazon, Starbucks, Movie Theater, Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, Whataburger, McDonald's, Game Stop, American Eagle, Claire's, Forever21, Academy, Old Navy, Target.