Illustration of a parade scene (DeLand Rotary Christmas Parade)
Other Christmas Activities

DeLand Rotary Christmas Parade

Spectators gather along Woodland Boulevard to watch more than 100 festive holiday entries. The evening procession includes marching bands, walking groups, decorated vehicles, and themed floats designed around a Winter Wonderland theme. Walkers hand out candy along the route, culminating in an appearance by the official Santa Claus.

What to Expect

A 70-year holiday tradition featuring more than 100 festive entries.

Event Details

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Downtown DeLand

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Rotary Clubs of DeLand

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and holiday-loving community crowds

Vibe

Festive and community-minded

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Location

DeLand, FL

Know Before You Go

  • Hours: Line-up starts at 4:00pm; parade starts at 6:00pm.
  • Parking: Parking is nearby at Earl Brown Park or Spec Martin Stadium.

Tips & Advice

  • Find your viewing spot along Woodland Boulevard between Michigan Avenue and Hubbard Avenue, since the parade travels south along that stretch.
  • Side streets close early for the line-up, so look over the area ahead of time and plan how you'll get in and out.
  • Keep the kids close to the curb, because walkers hand candy out directly instead of throwing it from floats.
  • It's an evening parade, so bring a jacket and expect the floats to be decorated for after dark in this year's Winter Wonderland theme.
  • Groups that want to march should register online by November 6, because entries close early once the parade reaches capacity.

Special Events & Promotions

  • This year's theme: "A Winter Wonderland Down Mainstreet"

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this year's theme?

This year's theme is "A Winter Wonderland Down Mainstreet," and every entry is decorated to match it.

Do they hand out candy?

Yes. Walkers in the parade groups hand out candy. Nothing is thrown from floats or by walkers.

Is Santa in the parade?

Yes. The committee provides the one official Santa, and no other entry is allowed to portray Santa or Mrs. Claus.

Is it good for kids?

Yes. It's an all-ages, G-rated event, and every entry has to be family-friendly with holiday-themed music.

How can my group be in the parade?

Register online by November 6, or sooner if the parade fills up. You can enter as a walking group, a cart or ATV, an auto or a float. Float captains and volunteers must attend a meeting on November 19 at DeLand City Hall Chambers.

Tags

paradescommunity celebrationholiday traditionfamily friendlyseasonal activities

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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.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team