Illustration of a holiday parade with a giant present float, a marching band and families waving (Christmas Parade)

Christmas Parade

Spectators gather in Downtown Springfield to watch holiday floats, marching bands, dance teams, and cheerleading groups step off through the city. The event is held as part of a community holiday kickoff celebration that honors a nostalgic Home For The Holidays theme.

Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

When

Hours

3:00 PM.

Going?

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and local holiday-parade fans

Vibe

Festive and nostalgic

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Groups planning to enter should submit their application by November 9, the stated application deadline.
  • If you want to see the parade, plan to be downtown before it steps off so you are in place to watch.
  • Consider making a day of the downtown kickoff: the Merry Market opens earlier, and the Mayor’s Tree Lighting follows the parade.
  • Look over the participation options for bands, dance and cheerleading groups, floats or volunteers before choosing how to join in.

Special Events & Promotions

  • The parade is part of a combined holiday kickoff with the Mayor’s Tree Lighting this year.
  • Merry Market opens earlier on parade day.
  • The Mayor’s Tree Lighting takes place later on parade day, with Santa sightings.

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of groups and entries are part of the parade?

The parade has floats, marching bands, dance teams and cheerleading groups.

What is the parade theme this year?

The 2026 theme is “Home For The Holidays,” celebrating the nostalgic feeling of being home for the holidays.

Can a group or individual take part?

Applications are available for bands, dance and cheerleading groups, floats and volunteers.

What other activities are part of the holiday kickoff that day?

The wider downtown celebration also includes the Merry Market and the Mayor’s Tree Lighting, with carriage rides and Santa sightings mentioned.

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.

Contributors & Updates

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