Emporia Community Christmas Parade
Visitors gather downtown for an evening procession featuring dazzling holiday floats, twinkling lights, and an appearance by Santa Claus. The event celebrates a patriotic holiday theme featuring red, white, blue, and Christmas sparkle. Participants distribute candy, novelty items, and prizes to onlookers along the route.
What to Expect
Celebrates America's 250th birthday with patriotic holiday floats and Santa.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Emporia
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Emporia Area Chamber & Visit Emporia
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday parade fans
Vibe
Festive and community-focused
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 6 PM.
- Pets: Parade entries with dogs or horses must handle their own street cleanup.
Tips & Advice
- Bundle up before heading downtown, since the Emporia Christmas Parade is an evening event in early December.
- Let kids stand near the curb, since entries hand out candy and prizes within fifteen feet of the curb rather than throwing them.
- Watch from the 700 block of Commercial to hear the commentators, since the reviewing stand is there and entries slow down.
- Groups entering the parade must submit the online entry form by November 18, because late entries are not accepted.
- Entries that want to be judged should have their float assembled and in their lineup spot on 4th Street west of Commercial ahead of time.
Special Events & Promotions
- 2026 theme: "250 Years Under the Christmas Tree," celebrating America's 250th birthday
- Ed Rathke serves as 2026 Parade Marshal
- Judged entries compete for special awards, including the Parade Marshal's and Chamber's awards
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What's this year's theme?
"250 Years Under the Christmas Tree." It adds a patriotic twist for America's 250th birthday, with extra red, white and blue alongside the Christmas sparkle.
Who is the Parade Marshal?
Ed Rathke is the Parade Marshal for 2026.
Will Santa be in the parade?
Yes. Santa makes a special appearance, arranged by the Emporia Area Chamber & Visit Emporia. Only one Santa is allowed in the parade.
Do parade entries hand out candy?
Yes. Entries hand out candy, prizes and novelty items within fifteen feet of the curb. Throwing items is not allowed.
Where are the parade commentators?
The commentators and reviewing stand are in the 700 block of Commercial.
More Christmas Events Near Emporia
More Christmas Events near Emporia
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.