Holiday Parade of Lights
Downtown Walla Walla comes together for an after-dark procession filled with a wide variety of lighted entries from local schools, businesses, clubs, and community groups. Spectators line the streets to enjoy illuminated floats and equestrian entries passing through town. Float volunteers hand out treats along the curbside, and Santa Claus arrives on the final float to herald the season.
What to Expect
Downtown illuminated community parade kicking off the holiday season.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Walla Walla
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Downtown Walla Walla Foundation
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday parade fans
Vibe
Festive and communal
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Staging begins at 3:45 pm; judging begins at 4:45 pm; the parade begins at 6 pm.
- Parking: Parade staging is on Alder Street between and including fourth through ninth streets. Equestrian participants may park trucks and trailers on Main Street past 6th Street Participants may not park in the Herring Funeral Home parking lot. After the parade, entries may not return to the staging area, so pick-up arrangements should be made in advance.
Tips & Advice
- Bring a chair, a warm coat and a warm drink, since you'll be watching an after-dark parade from the curb in early December.
- Stay until the very end of the parade, because Santa Claus rides the final float and brings the whole procession to a close.
- If you're entering a float, be lined up in the Alder Street staging area before judging starts, because entries not in line won't be judged.
- Parade entrants should arrange a pick-up in advance, since entries disperse at Sixth Street and can't go back to the original staging area.
- Keep every Santa off your entry, including pictures and inflatables, and hand candy out at the curb rather than throwing it from the float.
Special Events & Promotions
- There is no longer a fee to enter the parade. Entry applications are due Monday, November 30.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring to watch the parade?
Bring your family, a warm coat, a chair and a warm drink. It's an after-dark parade in December.
Which way does the parade go?
It starts at the corner of Alder and Fifth Street and heads east on Alder to Spokane. It then follows Spokane to Main Street and Main Street to Sixth, where it disperses.
Will Santa be in the parade?
Yes. Santa Claus rides the final float and closes the parade as he makes his way into Downtown Walla Walla. He is the only Santa in the parade.
Will kids get candy?
Float volunteers can hand out candy and business handouts at the curb. Throwing anything from a float is strictly prohibited.
Can my group enter a float?
Yes. Clubs, churches, schools, businesses and individuals can all apply, and there's no longer a fee to take part. Every entry must be lit and stay under the height limit of 15.5 feet. Santa can't appear on any entry in any form. Judges award first, second and third prizes.
More Christmas Events Near Walla Walla
More Christmas Events near Walla Walla
Always check the official website for the most current information.
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