Spirit of Christmas Parade
Spectators can line the streets to watch community floats, dance groups, drum corps, and marching bands make their way through the city. Participating entries proceed along the route from 17th Street and 9th Avenue through downtown to 16th Street, with performances evaluated at a judging staging area across from Heritage Plaza.
Sat, Dec 5, 2026 All ages
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Plan Your Visit
Hours
1pm.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Find a spot near the judging staging area across from Heritage Plaza, where bands, dance groups, drum corps and floats are judged for prizes.
- If you're entering a float or vehicle, fill the gas tank before check-in and have the float fully assembled before step-off.
- Make sure your entry clearly shows your organization's name, because it is used for the announcements along the route.
- Bring enough adults to supervise any children under 12 marching or riding with your entry, because adult supervision is required.
- Dress warmly for standing along the street on an early December afternoon in Altoona.
Links & Contact
Run by Seven Mountains Media, the City of Altoona, and Courtesy Motors
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What route does the parade take?
It starts at the corner of 17th Street and 9th Avenue and heads north on 17th Street. It turns right onto 12th Avenue, right onto 12th Street, and right onto 11th Avenue, then ends at 16th Street.
What will I see in the parade?
Floats, marching bands, dance groups and drum corps from the community, with each entry showing the name of its organization.
Are the entries judged?
Yes. Entries are judged at a staging area across from Heritage Plaza. Prizes go to the best marching band, dance group or drum corps and to the best overall float.
How can my group be in the parade?
Sign up through the registration page on the parade website. Your entry must display your organization's name, and children under 12 need adult supervision.
Where do parade entries check in?
Each division's letter gives its check-in location. Division captains wearing green arm bands will be there to meet you, and you must arrive at your assigned spot in time for setup.
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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.