Colorado Springs Festival of Lights Parade
Spectators gather along Tejon Street to watch nearly 100 parade entries, including illuminated floats, festive performers, and holiday characters designed around the annual theme. High school marching bands provide live music as the procession moves south through downtown. Spectators can also enjoy food from dedicated food truck villages set up near the parade route.
What to Expect
Dazzling downtown holiday parade featuring nearly 100 illuminated entries and marching bands.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Colorado Springs
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Festival of Lights, LLC
Food & Drink
Food trucks are available at Food Truck Villages at Platte & Tejon, Kiowa & Tejon, and the Pioneer’s Museum from 3–9 p.m.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday parade fans
Vibe
Bright, festive, communal
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 5:50pm.
- Parking: Free parking in the city parking garages beginning at 3 p.m.
Tips & Advice
- Park free in the Bijou/Cascade, Nevada/Colorado or Kiowa/Nevada city garages, which offer free parking starting mid-afternoon on parade day.
- Make a day of it with the free Family Fun Day at the Pioneers Museum, and register ahead at cspm.org/festivaloflights before you go.
- Grab dinner at the food truck villages at Platte & Tejon, Kiowa & Tejon or the Pioneers Museum, which run from afternoon into the evening.
- Dress warmly and bring layers, because you'll be standing outdoors on Tejon Street on a December evening for the parade.
- Stop by the Pioneers Museum entrance in the evening for hot chocolate and cookies before finding your spot along the route.
Special Events & Promotions
- This year's theme is "Celebrating the holiday season through the sights and sounds."
- The free Festival of Lights Family Fun Day at the Pioneers Museum runs before the parade. Register ahead.
- Hot chocolate and cookies are served outside the Pioneers Museum entrance in the evening.
- Tuba Christmas plays in the afternoon before the parade.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What will we see in the parade?
Nearly 100 entries, including illuminated floats, local high school marching bands, festive performers and holiday characters, all designed around the year's theme.
Is there anything for families earlier in the day?
Yes. The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum holds a free Festival of Lights Family Fun Day before the parade, with music, crafts, face painting and other family activities. Register ahead at cspm.org/festivaloflights. In the evening, hot chocolate and cookies are served outside the museum entrance.
Where can we get food?
Food truck villages set up at Platte & Tejon, Kiowa & Tejon and the Pioneers Museum, running from the afternoon into the evening.
Can I watch if I can't make it downtown?
Yes. KKTV broadcasts the parade live and runs replays throughout the holiday season.
How can I take part?
Groups can register a parade entry, businesses can sponsor, and anyone can donate. If you'd like to volunteer or join the board, contact Executive Director Kevin Leonardo.
More Christmas Events Near Colorado Springs
More Christmas Events near Colorado Springs
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.