Lights of December Parade
Spectators gather to watch brightly decorated floats created by local businesses, churches, schools, community groups, and nonprofits. The procession includes marching bands, lit fire engines, and holiday carolers, wrapping up with a grand finale appearance by Santa Claus. Visitors can also hear announcements describing each participating group from the reviewing stand.
What to Expect
Holiday parade featuring community floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Boulder
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Downtown Boulder
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday parade fans
Vibe
Festive and communal
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 6 pm.
Tips & Advice
- Settle in near Broadway and Pearl if you want to hear the reviewing-stand announcements about each participating group as it passes.
- Grab a warm drink at one of the spots near Broadway and Pearl before the floats arrive, and dress warmly for an evening outdoors.
- Keep everyone behind the fencing and out of the streets for the whole parade, which runs from 15th and Walnut to 15th and Spruce.
- If you are playing the Downtown Dash, stop by the Downtown Boulder Visitor Center before or after the parade to collect your stamp.
- Stay until the end, since Santa Claus appears in the grand finale after the marching bands, lit fire engines and holiday carolers.
Special Events & Promotions
- Downtown Dash players can earn a stamp at the Downtown Boulder Visitor Center before or after the parade.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What will we see in the parade?
There are floats decorated by local businesses, churches, schools, community groups and nonprofits. You'll also see marching bands, lit fire engines and holiday carolers. Santa Claus appears in the grand finale.
Where can I hear about each group in the parade?
The reviewing stand at Broadway and Pearl gives detailed announcements about each participating group. There are plenty of spots nearby to grab a warm drink.
Does the parade count for the Downtown Dash?
Yes. Stop by the Downtown Boulder Visitor Center before or after the parade to earn your stamp.
How can my group enter a float?
Groups sign up with the 2026 Holiday Parade Sign-Up Form, which has instructions in Spanish too. Read the 2026 Parade Rules before you enter.
Are there any safety rules for spectators?
Yes. Stay behind the fencing and out of the streets for the whole parade.
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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.