Illustration of a holiday parade with a giant present float, a marching band and families waving (Comox Valley Holiday Parade)

Comox Valley Holiday Parade

Visitors line the streets of Downtown Courtenay to watch a procession of decorated community, school, and commercial floats. Entries feature festive or live music along with creative decorations and costumes inspired by an optional elf theme. The procession also features an appearance by Santa Claus.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

When

Tickets

Registration: $10 for non-profit entries and $25 for commercial entries. Seven $500 prizes will be awarded across the listed float categories.

Hours

Participants may begin arriving at 5:00 p.m.; they must be in position by 5:30 p.m.; the parade starts at 6:00 p.m. sharp.

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Downtown Courtenay

Going?

Location

Downtown Courtenay · Courtenay, BC Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and fans of community parades

Vibe

Festive and communal

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Submit the entry application by November 23 and include vehicle insurance proof, since entries are not reserved until the fee is submitted.
  • If you are decorating a vehicle as a float, decorate at least two-thirds of it and keep its height within the stated limit.
  • Hand candy or approved promotional materials directly to spectators; throwing items into the crowd or onto the street is prohibited.
  • Do not dress anyone in a Santa costume for your entry, because the parade already features Santa and Santa-costumed participants will be removed.

Special Events & Promotions

  • This year’s parade takes inspiration from Moonlight & Magic’s optional “Elf Yourself” theme.
  • Seven prizes will be awarded across the float categories.

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can enter the parade?

Businesses, community organizations, schools, and families are invited to submit an entry. The parade is open to festive entries, and the elf theme is optional.

How do parade groups register?

Submit the online application by November 23, 2026, with the registration fee and proof of vehicle insurance. A spot is not reserved until the fee is submitted.

What rules apply to costumes and floats?

Entries may not include anyone dressed as Santa. Vehicles used as floats must be two-thirds decorated, and floats cannot exceed 3.8 meters in height.

Can parade entries hand out candy or promotional items?

Candy and approved promotional materials must be handed directly to people; throwing them into the crowd or onto the street is not allowed.

Are there prizes for parade entries?

Seven prizes are offered across the listed float categories, including Best Overall Entry, Best Children/Youth Entry, and Best New Entry.

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