2026 Christmas Parade

“Twinkle Through Time”

sunday, December 6th at 5 PM

Prepare to be dazzled as we take a sparkling trip through the ages at this year’s holiday parade!

Our 2026 theme, Twinkle Through Time, invites attendees of all ages to celebrate iconic historical moments adorned with a festive holiday glow. From Victorian winter wonderlands to roaring 1920s galas and beyond, this year’s procession promises an unforgettable experience for the entire community.

Plan your visit early, find your favorite spot along the route, and join us for a celebration that will be one for the history books!

“The Christmas Parade is a cherished tradition that brings our community together while driving support to our local businesses,” said Lauren Moore, Vice President of Communications & Programming at the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce. “This year’s theme, ‘Twinkle Through Time,’ is a sparkling celebration of our story and we look forward to seeing our community’s beautiful  ideas come to life on the parade route.” 

Last year’s parade drew over 20,000 people to the streets to celebrate the season and make new, cherished memories. This year, we’re expecting another incredible turnout as we wind back the clock and Twinkle Through Time.

We've received an exceptionally high number of applications this year and have moved to a waitlist. This means that if a spot becomes available, we will reach out to you.

Christmas Parade Participation Guidelines

To ensure a festive, unifying, and family-friendly atmosphere for all attendees, we ask that all entries focus exclusively on the spirit of the season.

• Signage Limits: For participants representing public office or community organizations, signage and banners must be limited strictly to your name, title, and district/organization name.

• Keep it Festive: To maintain a universally welcoming environment for all families, please refrain from including any political, partisan, or advocacy slogans, messages, or symbols.

Our goal is to keep the spotlight entirely on holiday cheer and community togetherness. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping this event magical and inclusive for everyone!

Applications for parade units will officially be submitted starting on Wednesday, July 22nd, 2026, at 9:00 AM EDT

• Applications will be reviewed, and organizations will be notified of acceptance, a request for more information, or denial within 7–10 business days of submission.

• Incomplete Applications: Applications will not be reviewed without all general liability and automobile liability insurance requirements and a defined theme concept. Placeholders or "TBD" submissions will not be accepted.

Upon Approval:

• Payment: Participation fees are due within seven (7) business days of approval.

• $175 for businesses

• $125 for non-profits

• $100 for walker-only groups (These fees directly cover the necessary infrastructure to bring this free celebration to our community.)

• Final Details: Fine-tuned theme details and float signage copy must be submitted for final approval by August 21st.

• Mandatory Safety Meeting: Attendance is required at one of the following safety meetings (options for both virtual and in-person will be provided):

• Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 12:00 PM

• Thursday, October 8, 2026, at 5:30 PM

Marching Bands, and only music playing marching bands, can apply early by contacting Lauren Moore.

Traveling from out of town?

Is your family traveling from out of town to attend the parade and need a place to stay? Head to our Directory to check out our member accommodations.

Presenting Sponsors

Grand Finale & Santa Escort Sponsor

Platinum Sponsors

Have questions or interested in sponsoring this free community event? Contact Lauren Moore, Vice President of Communications & Programming.

To ensure a smooth and safe event, all parade entries must supply a completed application, proof of the organization's liability insurance, and vehicle insurance (if a motorized unit), and attend a mandatory safety meeting. A nominal entry fee applies: Regular Unit Entry is $175, Nonprofit Organizations are $125, and Walker-Only Groups - $100. All required articles must be received by September 25th, 2025, to participate.

Stay tuned for further details on the parade route and other exciting announcements as the "Twinkle Through Time" parade approaches!

Community Partners