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

SMWC Light Your Way Christmas Parade

Spectators gather along Wabash Avenue to watch illuminated and decorated floats, dancers, marching bands, and honored guests. Participants hand out candy and other treats directly to attendees along the curb. The festive procession is open to all faiths and beliefs and features an appearance by Santa Claus.

Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Website / Tickets

smwc.edu

When

Hours

Parade starts at 6:00 p.m. Parade entries must be checked in by 5:00 p.m.; participants must be checked in by 5:00 p.m. and in place by 5:30 p.m.

Going?

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and holiday parade fans

Vibe

Festive and community-minded

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Submit your parade entry by November 27 if your group or organization wants to take part; the chairs reserve the right to reject applications.
  • If you are entering a float or vehicle, make sure it is lit and decorated and has an accessible fire extinguisher.
  • Participants should hand out candy or other items from the curb rather than throw them into the crowd.
  • Leave Santa costumes off parade entries; the rules allow Santa figurines or pictures, but only one Santa Claus is to appear.
  • If you are participating, clean up your area while moving into the parade lineup and follow the entry instructions provided after registration.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Santa Claus appears in the parade on December 5.

Links & Contact

Website / Tickets

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 can spectators expect to see in the parade?

The procession features decorated floats, marching bands, dancers, local organizations, honored guests, and Santa Claus.

Who is welcome to attend?

The parade is open to people of all faiths and beliefs.

Can groups, organizations, or businesses take part?

Yes. Submit a parade entry by November 27, 2026. Entry applications may be rejected by the parade chairs.

What requirements apply to parade entries?

Entries must be lit, decorated, and family-friendly. Each vehicle or float must have an accessible fire extinguisher, and political advertising is not allowed.

How may participants distribute candy or other items?

Items may be handed out at the curb but must not be thrown into the crowd.

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.

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