City of Auburn's Lighted Santa Parade & Tree Lighting
Spectators line downtown Main Street to watch community entries, lighted vehicles, cars, and festive floats travel past. The celebration includes live musical performances at City Hall before and after the procession. Festivities conclude with the annual municipal tree lighting ceremony and a visit from Santa.
What to Expect
Features lighted floats, live music, and the annual tree lighting ceremony.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
City of Auburn
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and community-focused
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Parade lineup begins at 3:30 PM; live music at City Hall at 4:00 PM; parade begins at 4:30 PM; tree lighting, Santa visit, and live music are after the parade ends. The event listing gives 04:30 PM - 05:30 PM.
- Parking: The route map marks parking areas.
Tips & Advice
- Get to City Hall before the parade to catch the first live music set, then watch the lighted entries come down Main Street.
- Stay at City Hall after the last float passes for the tree lighting, Santa's visit and another round of free live music.
- If you're entering the parade, register by Friday, November 20, and make sure your entry has a lighted element as the rules require.
- Dress warmly, since the parade and tree lighting take place outdoors on Main Street on a December evening after dark.
Special Events & Promotions
- Santa's Helper: one child aged 5 to 9 living in Auburn city limits will be picked at random to help light the City Hall tree. Nominations are open now.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I enter the parade?
Community groups, families, nonprofits and businesses can all enter. You must register by Friday, November 20. Every entry needs a lighted element and has to follow the parade rules and float safety requirements.
How can my child help light the tree?
Nominations are open for Santa's Helper. One child aged 5 to 9 who lives within Auburn city limits will be picked at random to help Santa light the tree in front of City Hall.
What route does the parade take?
It starts at Auburn High School and heads west along East Main Street through downtown. It then loops around City Hall and ends at Division Street.
Is there entertainment besides the parade?
Yes. There's free live music at City Hall before and after the parade, and the night ends with the tree lighting and a visit from Santa.
Where can I park?
Parking areas are marked on the parade route map.
More Christmas Events Near Auburn
More Christmas Events near Auburn
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.