Raleigh Christmas Parade
Spectators gather along a 1.4-mile route through downtown to watch the community holiday procession. The route begins at Hillsborough Street, passes by the State Capitol, and travels down Fayetteville Street to Lenoir Street. Visitors can watch street-side or take in the sights from open local businesses along the corridor.
What to Expect
The largest Christmas parade between Washington, DC and Atlanta.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Raleigh
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Greater Raleigh Merchants Association
Food & Drink
Vendors may not sell along the parade route; nearby businesses promoting parade viewing list coffee, hot chocolate, cider, pastries, and breakfast burritos.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday parade fans
Vibe
Festive, lively, communal
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 9:30 am street side.
- Parking: With parking decks, street parking and more all over town.
- Accessibility: Viewing is entirely street-side, and attendees are asked to allow people with disabilities and children access to see the parade.
Tips & Advice
- Use one of the city-owned parking decks, which are free the morning of the parade, then walk over to your viewing spot.
- If you have a favorite spot, get there early, since regulars arrive well before kickoff to claim the same seats every year.
- Hillsborough, St. Mary's, Hargett and Fayetteville Streets close from early morning into the afternoon, so plan your drive in around them.
- Choose Fayetteville Street for its downtown ambiance, or Hillsborough Street if you want open air and a view of the State Capitol.
- Stop into a local business for coffee, hot cocoa or a pastry, since shops along the route let customers use their restrooms.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Where's the best place to watch?
Anywhere along the route has good views. Some people love the ambiance of Fayetteville Street, and others prefer the open air and Capitol view on Hillsborough Street.
How early should we get there?
That's up to you. Some regulars arrive early in the morning to get the same spots they love every year, while others show up right at kickoff.
Are there restrooms along the route?
Yes. Porta-potties are placed throughout the parade area, and local businesses that are open have restrooms for their customers.
Is there seating for people with disabilities?
All viewing is street-side. Everyone is asked to make room so people with disabilities and children can see the parade.
How can I get involved?
You can volunteer with Shop Local Raleigh, which organizes the parade, or apply to be in the parade through the parade application.
More Christmas Events Near Raleigh
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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.