Santa Claus Parade
Spectators line the streets to watch holiday-themed floats, marching bands, inflatables, and an appearance from Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The procession travels from the Woodstock Fairgrounds down McKenzie Street, heads west along Dundas Street, and finishes at Victoria Park. Attendees are invited to hand non-perishable food items to volunteers walking along the route.
What to Expect
Features holiday-themed floats, marching bands, inflatables, and Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
City of Woodstock
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday parade fans
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Starting at 6 p.m.
- Parking: Accessible parking will be available on Dundas Street between Vansittart Avenue and Light Street. Free parking is available at many large lots along the route or at downtown municipal parking lots. Vehicles parked along the route after 5 p.m. will be towed to a nearby street.
- Accessibility: Accessible parking is available on Dundas Street between Vansittart Avenue and Light Street.
Tips & Advice
- Bring a non-perishable food item if you can, since volunteers walk the parade route collecting food donations from the crowd.
- Plan ahead to get a good viewing spot along the route, and use the free lots along the route or downtown rather than parking on the street.
- Watch for the no-parking signs along the route, because any vehicle left there once the roads close is towed to a nearby street.
- If you're going to Gateway Casinos that evening, reach the lot at Nellis Street and West Street from Rathbourne Avenue, because Nellis Street will be closed.
- Follow the directions of police and City of Woodstock staff controlling traffic around the route, and take extra care crossing streets near the parade.
Special Events & Promotions
- This year's theme is "Home for the Holidays: 125 Years of Woodstock."
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park for the parade?
You can park free at many of the large lots along the route or at the downtown municipal lots. Accessible parking is on Dundas Street between Vansittart Avenue and Light Street. Watch for no-parking signs, because cars left on the route are towed to a nearby street.
Should I bring anything?
Bring a non-perishable food item if you can. Volunteers walk the parade route collecting food donations.
What is this year's parade theme?
This year's theme is "Home for the Holidays: 125 Years of Woodstock."
How can my group be in the parade?
Bands and Shriners groups have their own application. Floats and walking groups apply on a separate form. Volunteer spots for 2026 are already full, and volunteer sign-ups for 2027 will open later.
Which roads close for the parade?
Nellis Street closes first, from West Avenue to Clarke Street North, along with MacKenzie Avenue. Only parade participants can enter the Fairgrounds after that. Later, the whole route closes: Dundas Street from McKenzie Avenue to Vansittart Avenue, Light Street from Dundas Street to Drew Street, and Drew, Graham and Buller Streets around Victoria Park.
More Christmas Events Near Woodstock
More Christmas Events near Woodstock
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.