Dover Holiday Parade
Spectators gather along the downtown parade route to celebrate the start of the holiday season. The procession features creative decorated floats, marching bands, community organizations, and special holiday appearances. Walkers along the route also hand out candy directly to attendees in the crowd.
What to Expect
Downtown parade featuring creative floats, marching groups, and holiday appearances.
Event Details
Duration
Historically, it takes about 45-50 minutes to reach the end at Cleary Cleaners.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Dover
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
The Cochecho Friends
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday-seeking community members
Vibe
Festive and communal
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Participation is free for groups and performers. Sponsor packages start at $500.
- Hours: 3:00pm.
Tips & Advice
- The parade runs rain or shine, so dress for the weather and plan to stand along the route for about 45 to 50 minutes.
- If the weather looks doubtful, check the Cochecho Friends website or the Dover Holiday Parade Facebook page on the day to see whether the parade is still on.
- Let the kids stand where walkers can reach them, because candy is handed out by hand and never thrown from vehicles.
- Groups that want to march must register by November 8 and send in a certificate of insurance, since nobody can join the parade on the day.
- Buy the 2026 holiday ornament at the Dover Chamber of Commerce or online, because all the proceeds go straight into the Dover Holiday Parade fund.
Special Events & Promotions
- The 2026 holiday ornament, “Yule Be Sorry: Holiday Mishaps and Bad Decisions Tinged with Regret,” is available at the Dover Chamber of Commerce and online; all proceeds go to the parade fund.
- Participation is free for groups and performers.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the parade take to go by?
In past years it has taken about 45 to 50 minutes for the parade to travel from Central Avenue by the Chamber of Commerce to the end at Cleary Cleaners.
Does the parade go ahead in bad weather?
Yes, it runs rain or shine unless City Officials and Police decide there is a safety risk. If a cancellation seems possible on the day, check the Cochecho Friends website or the Dover Holiday Parade Facebook page.
Will there be candy for the kids?
Yes. Walkers in the parade hand candy to the crowd. For safety, nobody may throw candy or other handouts from vehicles or while walking.
How can our group or band march in the parade?
Taking part is free for groups, performers, walkers, marching bands and floats. Sign up in advance by the November 8 entry deadline, agree to the parade rules and send in a certificate of insurance. Unregistered entries can't join on the day.
Where can I get help on parade day?
Before the parade starts, find a street monitor or go to parade headquarters at the Dover Chamber of Commerce, 550 Central Ave.
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