Christmas by the Lake
Visitors line the streets to watch an illuminated holiday procession travel toward the lake and along North Lakeview Drive. The celebration culminates at the seawall with a fireworks display over the water immediately following the parade.
What to Expect
Illuminated evening parade followed by a spectacular fireworks finale over the lake.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday parade fans
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 5:07 PM.
Tips & Advice
- Find your spot along Main Avenue or N Lakeview Drive before the parade begins, and stay put afterward because the fireworks start right after the parade ends.
- Dress warmly for an evening outdoors by the lake in December, since you will be standing for both the lighted parade and the fireworks finale at the seawall.
- Make a full day of Saturday with carriage and hayrack rides, the petting zoo, pony rides and Christmas karaoke with s'mores downtown before the parade.
- Bring your own camera or phone to Santa's House in City Park, where Santa visits on Saturday afternoon and again in the evening.
- Groups that want to ride or march in the lighted parade should submit their entry through the Christmas by the Lake parade entry form.
Special Events & Promotions
- The Lights on 5K Run/Walk opens the weekend on Thursday, and kids can join a Candy Cane Fun Run with Santa and Mrs. Claus that same evening.
- A Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place Friday at the City Park Bandshell.
- Breakfast with Santa runs Saturday morning at St. Patrick's Catholic Church. You pay at the door with no advance sales, and ages 5 and under eat free.
- Family matinees of Elf on Saturday and The Grinch on Sunday are free with a non-perishable food item or cash donation for the food bank.
- The Polar Bear Plunge is Sunday at Clear Lake City Beach, and a Toe Dippers Club option lets you join without fully jumping in.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What route does the lighted parade take?
The parade starts at 8th Street and Main Avenue, travels toward the lake and then turns north along N Lakeview Drive.
Are there fireworks?
Yes. The fireworks finale at the seawall begins right after the parade.
Is Christmas by the Lake good for families?
Yes. It is a family-friendly festival with activities for all ages, including a petting zoo, pony rides, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, balloon artists and carriage rides.
Can kids see Santa on parade day?
Yes. Santa is at Santa's House in Clear Lake City Park on Saturday afternoon and again in the evening, so bring a camera or phone for photos.
How can my group be in the parade?
Groups can sign up through the Christmas by the Lake parade entry form.
More Christmas Events Near Clear Lake
More Christmas Events near Mason City
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.