Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade
Visitors can watch a procession featuring glittering floats, marching bands, 12-foot inflatable turkeys, and Santa Claus. The parade begins with autumn and Thanksgiving-themed units before moving into winter, Hanukkah, and Christmas celebrations. Festivities also include an opening ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by local emcees and county leadership.
What to Expect
Features 12-foot inflatable turkeys, marching bands, floats, and Santa Claus.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Silver Spring
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Silver Spring Urban District
Food & Drink
Family-friendly restaurants are located along the parade route.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday-season parade fans
Vibe
Festive and community-focused
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Starts at 10:00am (also written as 10 a.m.).
- Parking: Free parking is available in the Sligo Avenue, Cameron Street, and Bonifant Street public garages. The Ellsworth Town Center and Wayne Avenue garages are closed that day. Saturday and Wayne Avenue garage closes beginning at 8am; garages re-open by 2pm. Parade goers are encouraged to take Metro/Red Line to Silver Spring station.
Tips & Advice
- Take the Metro Red Line to Silver Spring station, as paradegoers are encouraged to use it and nearby garages have closures.
- If driving, use the Sligo Avenue, Cameron Street or Bonifant Street public garages; the Ellsworth Town Center and Wayne Avenue garages are closed.
- Expect road closures around the route, including Georgia Avenue, and use the stated East-West Highway detour for traffic.
- The parade continues rain or shine; if dangerous weather occurs, listen for directions to take cover in adjacent parking garages.
- Find the portable restrooms on Veterans Place behind the building, and consider the family-friendly restaurants along the parade route for food.
Special Events & Promotions
- Free parking is available in the Sligo Avenue, Cameron Street, and Bonifant Street public garages.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What will the parade include?
Expect floats, marching bands, 12-foot inflatable turkeys and Santa, with units progressing from harvest and Thanksgiving themes to winter, Hanukkah and Christmas.
Is the parade suitable for families?
Yes. It is described as a celebration for the whole family.
Where can I find food and restrooms along the route?
Family-friendly restaurants are along the route. Portable restrooms are on Veterans Place, behind the building.
Where can I park, and what is the recommended transit option?
Free parking is available in the Sligo Avenue, Cameron Street and Bonifant Street public garages. The Ellsworth Town Center and Wayne Avenue garages are closed; paradegoers are encouraged to take the Metro Red Line to Silver Spring station.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The parade continues rain or shine. If conditions become dangerous, an announcement will direct people to take cover in adjacent parking garages; cancellation notices would be shared through Montgomery County Public Information Channels.
More Christmas Events near Silver Spring
Always check the official website for the most current information.
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