Santa's Grand Arrival Parade
Spectators gather along North Cattlemen Road to watch Santa's Grand Arrival Parade usher in the holiday season. The procession features local schools, marching bands, clubs, and businesses celebrating the theme Home for the Holidays. Participating groups spread festive cheer to thousands of families as they showcase creative entries.
What to Expect
Holiday parade along Cattlemen Road featuring local groups competing for prizes.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
University Town Center Sarasota
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday parade fans
Vibe
Festive and communal
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Participant registration fees: commercial/for-profit businesses $250; nonprofit organizations $100; dance studios, school marching bands, and school groups free. Payment is required after the entry, insurance, and application have been approved. – Get tickets
Tips & Advice
- Groups that want to march should get their application in by October 12, 2026, the deadline for this year's parade entries.
- Read the Parade Rules and Regulations and the insurance requirements before you register, because insurance documents must be emailed in as part of entering.
- Build your entry around the Home for the Holidays theme, since UTC awards prizes to the most impressive parade participants.
- Dance studios, school marching bands and school groups can enter free, so schools can join without paying a registration fee.
Special Events & Promotions
- The 2026 parade theme is Home for the Holidays.
- UTC awards prizes to the most impressive parade entries.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What's this year's parade theme?
The 2026 theme is Home for the Holidays, celebrating the warmth, comfort and joy of being together during the holiday season.
Who can be in the parade?
Local schools, clubs and businesses are invited to join the parade along N Cattlemen Rd.
How do we enter the parade?
Read the Parade Rules and Regulations, then fill out the registration form. Next, email your insurance documents to DILLON@eventfest.com. Once your entry, insurance and application are approved, pay the registration fee to EventFest Inc. Applications are due October 12, 2026.
Do school groups pay to take part?
No. Dance studios, school marching bands and school groups enter free. Businesses and nonprofits pay a registration fee after they're approved.
Are there prizes?
Yes. UTC awards prizes to the most impressive parade entries, in several award categories.
More Christmas Events Near Sarasota
More Christmas Events near Sarasota
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.