Harrisonburg Holiday Parade
Spectators line Main Street to watch bands, walking groups, floats, and vehicles march through downtown Harrisonburg celebrating the Festival of Lights theme. The procession travels south toward City Hall as part of the community Winter Wonderfest celebration. Afterward, visitors can gather in Court Square for a traditional tree lighting ceremony.
What to Expect
Downtown parade themed Festival of Lights with a Court Square tree lighting.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Harrisonburg
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
City of Harrisonburg Parks and Recreation
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and fans of community parades
Vibe
Festive and community-focused
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 7:00pm.
Tips & Advice
- Stake out a spot along Main Street between Gay Street and City Hall, the stretch where spectators are encouraged to watch for the best view.
- Plan your drive around the closures of Main Street, Court Square and part of Gay Street, which start well before the parade and last late into the night.
- Stay after the last float passes and head to Court Square for the tree lighting ceremony that follows the parade.
- Groups hoping to march should enter by the November 9 deadline, since spots are limited and entries close early if 70 units sign up.
- Dress warmly in layers, because you'll be standing outdoors along Main Street on a December evening for the parade and tree lighting.
Special Events & Promotions
- This year's parade theme is "Festival of Lights."
- Tree lighting ceremony in Court Square right after the parade.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Where's the best place to watch?
Along Main Street between Gay Street and City Hall. That's the stretch spectators are encouraged to line for the best view.
What's this year's theme?
This year's parade theme is "Festival of Lights."
Is there anything after the parade?
Yes. A tree lighting ceremony follows the parade in Court Square. The parade is part of the Winter Wonderfest celebration with Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance.
Which streets will be closed?
Both lanes of Main Street from Martin Luther King, Jr. Way to Gay Street are closed, along with Court Square and Gay Street from Mason Street to Noll Drive. They close in the late afternoon and reopen late at night.
How can my group be in the parade?
Entries are limited. The deadline is Monday, November 9, 2026, unless the parade fills its 70 units first. Bands and walking groups finish at City Hall, and floats and vehicles loop around to Grattan Street.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
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