Hickory Christmas Parade
Spectators can watch the festive parade travel through downtown before dropping Santa off at Union Square. Following the processional, Santa lights the community Christmas tree amidst holiday music and local shopping specials. Visitors can also step inside a giant winter wonderland snow globe on Union Square to take commemorative photos.
Fri, Nov 20, 2026 All ages
See more other Christmas activities near Hickory
Plan Your Visit
Hours
5:45 p.m.
Neighborhood
Downtown Hickory
Parking
Parking is limited; the event page does not provide visitor parking instructions.
Tips & Advice
- After 3 p.m., exit downtown heading east; 4th Street and streets west on Main Avenue toward 1st Avenue close then.
- Arrive before 5:15 p.m., when the full parade route closes; vehicles cannot leave downtown until the parade ends.
- Parking is limited, so allow extra time to find a place to park before the roads close.
- Plan food and drinks elsewhere because the event does not invite food trucks or other vendors.
- Dress for an outdoor evening and comfortable standing, since the parade and tree lighting take place downtown.
Special Events & Promotions
- Santa lights the community tree on Union Square immediately after the parade.
- Parade-entry registration opens October 1, 2026, for organizations within Hickory city limits.
Links & Contact
Run by City of Hickory
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the parade travel?
It starts at 4th Street NW and 1st Avenue NW, continues along 1st Avenue NW toward City Hall, turns onto North Center Street and Main Avenue NW, passes through Union Square, then exits on Main Avenue NW.
Can I take a photo with Santa at the tree lighting?
No. Santa departs after the tree lighting and is not available for photos there. A winter wonderland snow globe on Union Square is available for attendee photos.
Will there be food trucks or other vendors?
No. Food trucks and other vendors are not invited to the event.
How do downtown road closures affect leaving the event?
Roads close in stages. Once the full parade route is closed, you cannot exit downtown until the parade is over.
Can local organizations enter the parade?
Organizations within Hickory city limits can register parade entries beginning October 1, 2026.
Browse Christmas in Hickory
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.