Illustration of a holiday parade with a giant present float, a marching band and families waving (44th Bakersfield Christmas Parade)
Other Christmas Activities

44th Bakersfield Christmas Parade

The Bakersfield Christmas Parade is a family-oriented holiday event that gathers the community downtown under the theme 'A Magical Christmas'. Spectators line the route to watch festive floats, marching bands, and holiday entries. The event also features local vendors and is televised live.

Thu, Dec 3, 2026 Free admission.

Website / Tickets

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Plan Your Visit

Hours

Parade starts at 6:00pm; live TV broadcast 6:00–8:00pm.

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and community parade fans

Vibe

Festive and communal

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive and park outside the parade route before road closures begin, since vehicles cannot enter once barriers are in place.
  • Plan to walk to your viewing spot after the route closes; pedestrian access remains open from outside the route.
  • Allow extra time to leave by car after the parade, as the route may be restricted to exiting vehicles for 20–30 minutes.
  • If watching from home, tune in to KGET-TV 17 or KGET+ for the live broadcast.
  • If participating as an entrant or vendor, submit the application packet and required insurance by the deadline and attend the mandatory meeting.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Free admission.
  • Watch the parade live on KGET-TV 17 and KGET+.

Links & Contact

Website / Tickets

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

Who is the parade suited for?

It is a family-oriented event for the young and young at heart.

Can I watch the parade without attending downtown?

Yes. It is broadcast live on KGET-TV 17 and KGET+.

Can pedestrians reach viewing spots after the route closes to traffic?

Yes. Pedestrian access remains open, including for people who park outside the parade route.

How can groups take part in the parade or Marketplace?

Entrants and vendors can submit applications, insurance and required paperwork by the October 23 deadline. Participants also have a mandatory meeting on November 4.

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.

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