Light Up The Night Holiday Parade
Spectators gather along Churton Street in downtown Hillsborough to watch an annual holiday procession. The parade showcases marching bands, cheerleaders, dance troupes, classic cars, local businesses, floats, and an appearance by Santa Claus. Attendees can also explore downtown shops and eateries before settling into a viewing spot.
What to Expect
Features marching bands, dance troupes, classic cars, floats, and Santa Claus.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Hillsborough
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Hillsborough/Orange County Chamber of Commerce
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday parade fans
Vibe
Festive and community-minded
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 4:00 - 6:30 PM; beginning at 4:00 pm.
- Parking: Visitors are encouraged to come early to secure parking and a viewing spot; no parking location or cost is given.
Tips & Advice
- Come downtown early to find parking and claim a good viewing spot along Churton Street before the parade starts.
- Make an afternoon of it by shopping and eating downtown before the parade instead of arriving right at the start.
- If you want the tree lighting and Photos with Santa, go on Saturday, December 5, because the tree lighting doesn't follow the parade.
- If you're entering the parade, submit both the application and the registration payment, since doing only one won't hold your spot.
- The parade runs into the evening outdoors in December, so bring warm layers, gloves and hats for everyone.
Special Events & Promotions
- The Tree Lighting Ceremony is the day before the parade, on Saturday, December 5, with Photos with Santa, choral performances and games, then the lighting at the Old Courthouse.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What will we see in the parade?
Mayor Mark Bell and NC State Representatives, marching bands, local businesses, cheerleaders, dance troupes, classic cars, floats, and Santa Claus.
What route does the parade take?
It heads south on Churton Street from Corbin Street to Margaret Lane and ends at the corner of Margaret Lane and Cameron Street.
Is there a tree lighting after the parade?
No. The Tree Lighting Ceremony is the day before, on Saturday, December 5. It starts with Photos with Santa, choral groups and games at the Hillsborough Visitors Center on Margaret Lane, and the tree is lit at the Old Courthouse.
How can my group or business be in the parade?
Fill out the parade entry application and also pay the registration fee. Your spot isn't reserved until both are done.
Is there anything to do downtown before the parade?
Yes. Come early to do some holiday shopping and grab a bite to eat downtown before the parade starts.
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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.