Concord Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony
Spectators gather along a two-mile route to watch marching school bands, civic groups, churches, sports teams, and decorative floats. Entries travel through city streets toward the judges' stage, competing across multiple award categories. The procession brings together community organizations from across the area for an annual holiday celebration.
What to Expect
One of North Carolina's oldest and continuously running Christmas parades.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Concord
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
City of Concord
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and fans of community parades
Vibe
Festive and community-minded
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free to the public.
- Hours: Beginning at 2:30 p.m.
Tips & Advice
- Choose a viewing spot along Church Street, Buffalo Avenue, or Union Street; the parade travels more than two miles and ends near Union and Corban.
- For a view of the judging, head near the judges’ stage at Barbrick Avenue and Union Street.
- Dress in warm layers and bring weather-appropriate gear, since you’ll be watching outdoors and may be standing along the route.
- If your organization plans to enter, register by October 23 or earlier because registration closes when full; professional float rentals are available.
Special Events & Promotions
- 29th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, November 20, the night before, in Downtown Concord, ending with fireworks.
- Santa Land at the tree lighting: meet Santa and Mrs. Claus in a snow-filled Courthouse Plaza.
- Country band Saddletramp plays the tree lighting main stage at Union Street and Barbrick Avenue.
- Youth entertainment stage at Church Street and Means Avenue during the tree lighting.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What route does the parade follow?
It starts at Church Street N and Lake Concord Road and runs over two miles along Church Street, Buffalo Avenue and Union Street. It ends at Union Street and Corban Avenue.
Where is the judges' stage?
Near the intersection of Barbrick Avenue and Union Street.
Which entries are judged?
Judging categories are School Bands, Schools, Churches and Civic Organizations. This year's judges table is sponsored by Harris Teeter.
How can my group be in the parade?
Register online through October 23, or until spots fill. Community organizations, civic groups, churches, schools and sports teams can sign up, and you can also reserve a professional float rental.
Is there anything else going on that weekend?
The 29th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony is the night before in Downtown Concord. It has food trucks, a kids' zone, Santa and Mrs. Claus, live music and fireworks.
More Christmas Events Near Concord
More Christmas Events near Concord
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.