Christmas parades in Wisconsin take on the state’s warm, festive spirit that contrasts beautifully with its snowy landscapes. Small towns and cities alike glow with a multitude of classic traditions. Parades, tree lightings, sleigh rides, holiday markets and visits with Santa abound. These events bring communities and visitors together while the crisp winter air and snow-covered scenery create a postcard-perfect backdrop. Altogether, Christmas in Wisconsin feels nostalgic, welcoming, and full of simple holiday charm.
Big-City Christmas Parades
- Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade – One of the largest nighttime Midwest Christmas parades, the Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade draws about 80,000 spectators each year. The parade features about 80 units, including colorful floats, decorated vehicles, walking units, animals, and other unique entries. What’s more, over twenty marching bands from Northeastern Wisconsin/Upper Michigan high schools and area communities perform favorite holiday tunes. The parade begins at 7 p.m. the Tuesday before Thanksgiving.
- Waukesha Christmas Parade – This Wisconsin parade features marching bands, floats and a special appearance from Santa. Organizers invite children to bring letters for Santa. In addition, spectators should come out early to enjoy pre-parade family festivities.
- Green Bay Holiday Parade – Organizers invite you to kick off parade day, Saturday, November 21, 2026, with live music at 9 a.m. The parade follows by at 10 a.m. This themed parade features vibrant floats, marching bands, dancers, and beloved holiday characters. What’s more, Santa and his reindeer will greet everyone at the YWCA following the parade.
More Big-City Processions
- Oshkosh Holiday Parade – The Christmas festivities begin Thursday, November 19, 2026, with live music at Opera House Square from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Without a doubt, anticipation builds as the tree lighting follows at 6 p.m. and the parade at 6:15 p.m.
- Fond du Lac Holiday Parade of Lights – Traditionally held on a Saturday in early December, the parade begins at 4:15 p.m. and makes its way down Main Street. All in all, you can bring the family, make memories, and kick off the season in the most joyful way!
- West Allis Christmas Parade – The premier night-time Christmas parade in southeastern Wisconsin, the West Allis Christmas Parade will step off at 4:45 p.m. Saturday, December 5, 2026. Without a doubt, the parade will be filled with marching bands, live performers, vintage vehicles, creative floats, elves, cartoon characters and Santa Claus.
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Small-Town
- Elkhorn Christmas Card Town Parade – Known as the Christmas Card Town, Elkhorn holds its Annual Christmas Card Town Parade the first Saturday in December at 1:30 p.m. You’re invited to enjoy an afternoon of holiday fun as families, local organizations and business groups bring their festive entries to town on parade day.
- Amherst Tomorrow River Christmas Parade – Considered the biggest small-town Christmas parade in Central Wisconsin, Amherst’s Tomorrow River Christmas Parade features highly illuminated floats. The parade steps off at 6:30 p.m. Friday, December 5, 2026. Additionally, Amherst invites spectators to come early and stay after to enjoy live music and local eateries.
- Centuria Cozy Country Christmas & Parade – No doubt, you’ll want to arrive early at 4 p.m. on December 5, 2026! Browse vendors and take part in family friendly games, crafts, cookie decorating and visits with Santa before the parade steps off at 6:30 p.m.
photo credit: Facebook group page – Sheboygan County Local Businesses & Local Events
- Plymouth Holiday Gathering Christmas Parade – This festive Christmas parade in Wisconsin typically takes place 7 p.m. the Friday after Thanksgiving (November 27, 2026). Unquestionably, the parade features a variety of entries, including the Plymouth fire trucks, Random Rockin’ Grannies, a horse-drawn carriage, Santa wagon, floats and more. Following the parade, you should be sure to stay for the community Christmas tree lighting.
Together, these holiday traditions showcase the range of Christmas parades in Wisconsin – from big, brightly lit city events to intimate, community-centered celebrations. Find more festive Christmas parades in nearby Ohio.
AI contributed to this post.