Carbondale Lights Fantastic Parade
Visitors gather to watch an illuminated holiday procession featuring entries and floats covered with lots of lights. Families can also participate in various parade day activities held throughout the downtown area.
What to Expect
Annual illuminated holiday procession held snow or shine in downtown Carbondale.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Carbondale Lights Fantastic Parade Committee
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday parade fans
Vibe
Festive and community-focused
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 6:00pm.
- Parking: A parking map is provided.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive before the route closes about an hour ahead of the parade, and check the detour map so you don't run into closed streets downtown.
- Dress for the weather, since the parade goes on snow or shine on the first Saturday of December.
- Park in a public city lot such as East Mill Street at Washington or South Illinois Avenue south of Grand, and avoid the permit-only and leased lots.
- Come downtown early enough to join the parade-day activities before the lighted floats roll down the route.
- Register your float, band or vendor booth ahead of time, and cover your entry in plenty of lights, since lights are the one thing every entry needs.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the parade happen in bad weather?
Yes, it's snow or shine.
Who is it for?
It's a family event, and there are parade-day activities around downtown.
Can I enter a float or be a vendor?
Yes. Any entry is welcome as long as it has lots of lights. There is float/band registration and vendor registration, and you can also sign up to volunteer.
Where should I park?
Use the downtown city lots, such as East Mill Street at Washington, South Illinois Avenue south of Grand, or South Illinois Avenue from College to Mill. Some lots are permit-only or leased and can't be used.
Will streets be closed?
Yes. The parade route closes about an hour before the parade starts, and there is a detour map to check.
More Christmas Events near Carbondale
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