9NEWS Parade of Lights
Spectators gather along a two-mile downtown route to celebrate the holiday season with light, music, and cultural entertainment. The procession showcases more than 40 illuminated floats, giant balloons, marching bands, and live performance groups such as Mestizo dancers. Attendees can also explore activation zones offering festive experiences, product sampling, and giveaways.
What to Expect
Colorado's two-mile holiday parade featuring illuminated floats, giant balloons, and bands.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Denver
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Downtown Denver Partnership
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday-tradition seekers
Vibe
Festive and communal
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free.
- Parking: Downtown lots and garages can be reserved and prepaid through SpotHero, and on-street meters are also available.
Tips & Advice
- Reserve and prepay a downtown garage or lot through SpotHero before parade day, so your parking is settled before the crowds of spectators arrive.
- Take RTD bus or light rail, since downtown Denver is the hub of the regional transit system and the parade runs right through it.
- Dress warmly and bring layers, because you'll be standing outdoors along the route in December while more than 40 parade units go by.
- Stop by the activation zones along the parade route, where booths offer product sampling, giveaways and festive experiences.
- If you want to help out, sign up to volunteer as soon as signups open this fall, because the parade depends on community volunteers.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the parade good for families?
Yes. It's a free, family-friendly celebration in the heart of downtown, and for many Denver families it's a tradition across generations.
What will I see along the route?
More than 40 parade units along the two-mile route: illuminated floats, giant balloons, marching bands, and cultural performance groups such as Mestizo dancers.
Where can I park downtown?
Downtown has many surface lots and garages, and you can reserve and prepay a spot through SpotHero. Street meters are another option, with rates posted on each meter or kiosk.
Can my band or performance group be in the parade?
Yes. Marching bands and cultural or specialty performance groups can apply for the 2026 parade. Donations help cover costs so groups can take part without fees.
How can I volunteer?
The parade runs on community volunteers, and volunteer signups open this fall.
More Christmas Events Near Denver
More Christmas Events near Denver
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.