Christmas parades in Illinois bring communities and visitors together to kick off the holiday season. From large cities to small communities, Illinois hosts annual Christmas parades with vibrant lights, music and plenty of holiday cheer.
Christmas Parades in Northern Illinois
The St. Charles Holiday Homecoming Electric Christmas Parade steps off Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. CT. In summary, the parade starts at 6th Street, marches down Main Street, and ends at 4th Avenue. Most importantly, floats, live bands, and Santa Claus himself will appear.
Parade-goers recognize Chicago’s Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival® Parade as the largest nighttime parade in the U.S. To begin with, the parade takes place Saturday, November 22, 2025. What’s more, the 2025 parade down North Michigan Avenue will feature Grand Marshals Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse of Walt Disney World®Resort. Marching bands, fabulous floats with beloved friends from Walt Disney World® Resort, musical celebrities and Santa Claus will join them.
In addition, Woodstock’s Annual Christmas Parade steps off at 2 p.m. CT the Sunday after Thanksgiving – that’s Sunday, November 30 in 2025. With this in mind, you’re invited to come out and welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus and local organizations and businesses parading on floats.
Christmas Parades in Central Illinois
To begin with, you can view the Danville Night of Lights Parade Friday, December 5, 2025, at 7 p.m. CT in Downtown Danville. This time, you should come for the day and enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides and a visit with Santa at Temple Plaza.
Parade-goers note the Peoria Santa Claus Parade is the longest-running holiday parade in the United States. (The parade has kicked off the Christmas season annually in Peoria since 1887.) Indeed, the Peoria Santa Claus Parade always follows Thanksgiving and will take place November 28, 2025, at 10:15 a.m. CT.
In addition, the Arthur Lighted Christmas Parade, an annual evening event, takes place in downtown Arthur. In particular, the parade showcases lighted floats and celebrates the holiday spirit in Illinois Amish Country. Moreover, the 2025 parade steps off Saturday, December 6, at 4:30 p.m. CT as the sun goes down.
Christmas Parades in Southern Illinois
The Carlyle Christmas Parade and Fireworks will take place Friday, November 28, 2025. In brief, the parade will step off at 6:30 p.m. CT with the fireworks to follow at 7:30 p.m. CT. You’re invited to join the Carlyle community in celebrating the biggest event of the season!
What’s more, the Grafton Winter Lights Parade will step off Saturday, December 6, 2025, 5:30 p.m. CT. Then it will travel Water Street, ending at The Loading Dock for a evening of ice-skating and fun!
Also, the Mt. Carmel Christmas Parade will be held Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 5:15 p.m. to 6 p.m. CT. Parade officials will award prizes for Best Use of Theme, Best Use of Lights, Best Decorated Vehicle, Originality Award, Spirit Awards and Best of Parade.
To conclude, the Belleville Santa Claus Parade will step off Friday, November 28, 2025, at 10 a.m. CT. Hosted by the Optimist Club of Belleville, this parade includes marching bands, festive floats, dance groups, and more!
If you’re road tripping this Christmas season, you can also cross the border into Indiana for some festive Christmas parades.
And if you’re preparing your own parade entry this holiday season, Bronner’s can help with our broad selection of lights.