Magic on Main Street
Floats cruise down Main Street as part of the festive Santa Claus Parade. The procession concludes at Gyro Park for the official light-up ceremony. Visitors can see a visit from Santa Claus, explore a 180-foot light tunnel, and view a giant 'light brite' installation.
What to Expect
Features a parade, 180-foot light tunnel, and Gyro Park light-up reveal.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Penticton
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
City of Penticton
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Santa Claus Parade: 4:30 p.m.; Light-Up ceremony: 6 p.m.
- Parking: The City offers a free Park, Shop ‘n’ Ride shuttle from Cherry Lane Shopping Centre to downtown, operating on a continuous loop every 15 minutes from 4 p.m. to 7:20 p.m. Road closures affect Main Street between Eckhardt Avenue and Lakeshore Drive starting at 3 p.m.; drivers are asked to move vehicles from that area by 2:30 p.m. Floats stage in the Penticton High School parking lot.
Tips & Advice
- Ride the free Park, Shop 'n' Ride shuttle from Cherry Lane Shopping Centre, since downtown has road closures and heavy foot traffic during the parade.
- If you usually park on Main Street between Eckhardt Avenue and Lakeshore Drive, move your car before the closure so the route stays clear for the floats.
- Allow extra time on Eckhardt Avenue, where floats stage in the Penticton High School parking lot and you'll meet slow-moving vehicles and traffic control.
- Follow the parade to Gyro Park afterward for the light-up ceremony, with Santa, the 180-foot light tunnel and the giant 'light brite' feature.
- Dress warmly for an evening outdoors, since you'll be standing along Main Street for the parade and then gathering at Gyro Park for the light-up.
Special Events & Promotions
- Santa Claus makes a visit during this year's light-up reveal at Gyro Park.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at Magic on Main Street?
The Santa Claus Parade brings dozens of floats down Main Street and ends at Gyro Park. The official light-up ceremony takes place there.
What's part of the light-up at Gyro Park?
This year's reveal includes a visit from Santa Claus, the 180-foot light tunnel, the giant 'light brite' feature and more surprises.
Where should I park?
Park at Cherry Lane Shopping Centre and take the free Park, Shop 'n' Ride shuttle. It runs a continuous loop every 15 minutes from the Atkinson Street stop north of Warren Avenue. Other stops are Martin Street at Wade Avenue and Gyro Park, on Martin Street behind the park near Lakeshore Drive.
How can my group enter a float?
Organizations can apply until Friday, November 20, 2026, online or on a printed form. Everyone taking part also signs an online liability waiver. Questions go to events@penticton.ca.
Can I volunteer?
Yes. Volunteers help with barricade intersection control, marshalling and parade route support. Email events@penticton.ca if you're interested.
More Christmas Events Near Penticton
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