Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade
Spectators gather along College Avenue to watch a nighttime holiday procession featuring approximately 80 units, including colorful floats, decorated vehicles, walking groups, and animals. More than twenty marching bands from Northeastern Wisconsin and Upper Michigan perform holiday tunes along the route.
Tue, Nov 24, 2026 All ages
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Plan Your Visit
Hours
Begins at 7:00 p.m.
Neighborhood
Downtown Appleton
Location
Tips & Advice
- Dress warmly in layers, because this is an outdoor nighttime parade in late November and you'll be standing along College Avenue the whole time.
- Find your spot along College Avenue between State Street and Drew Street, the stretch the parade travels heading east through downtown.
- Get downtown early to claim a spot, because about 80,000 people line the route each year.
- If you can't make it in person, stream the parade live at WeAreGreenBay.com or watch it on CBS 5, WFRV-TV.
Links & Contact
Run by City of Appleton Parade Committee
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 State Street and College Avenue downtown and heads east on College Avenue to Drew Street.
What's in the parade?
There are about 80 units, including colorful floats, decorated vehicles, walking groups and animals. More than twenty marching bands from high schools and communities in Northeastern Wisconsin and Upper Michigan play holiday tunes.
How big is the crowd?
About 80,000 people come downtown to watch each year.
Can I watch from home?
Yes. CBS 5, WFRV-TV airs it live and in rebroadcasts, and you can stream it live at WeAreGreenBay.com.
How can my group be in the parade?
Groups apply through the City of Appleton. The application window opens September 1 and closes October 1.
Browse Christmas in Appleton
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.