Illustration of a holiday parade with a giant present float, a marching band and families waving (Carbondale Lights Fantastic Parade)

Carbondale Lights Fantastic Parade

Visitors gather to watch an illuminated holiday procession featuring entries and floats covered with lots of lights. Families can also participate in various parade day activities held throughout the downtown area.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Website / Tickets

lightsfantasticparade.com

When

Hours

6:00pm.

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Downtown

Parking

A parking map is provided.

Going?

Location

See it and nearby events on the map
Downtown Carbondale · Carbondale, IL Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and holiday parade fans

Vibe

Festive and community-focused

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive before the route closes about an hour ahead of the parade, and check the detour map so you don't run into closed streets downtown.
  • Dress for the weather, since the parade goes on snow or shine on the first Saturday of December.
  • Park in a public city lot such as East Mill Street at Washington or South Illinois Avenue south of Grand, and avoid the permit-only and leased lots.
  • Come downtown early enough to join the parade-day activities before the lighted floats roll down the route.
  • Register your float, band or vendor booth ahead of time, and cover your entry in plenty of lights, since lights are the one thing every entry needs.

Links & Contact

Website / Tickets Contact

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 contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the parade happen in bad weather?

Yes, it's snow or shine.

Who is it for?

It's a family event, and there are parade-day activities around downtown.

Can I enter a float or be a vendor?

Yes. Any entry is welcome as long as it has lots of lights. There is float/band registration and vendor registration, and you can also sign up to volunteer.

Where should I park?

Use the downtown city lots, such as East Mill Street at Washington, South Illinois Avenue south of Grand, or South Illinois Avenue from College to Mill. Some lots are permit-only or leased and can't be used.

Will streets be closed?

Yes. The parade route closes about an hour before the parade starts, and there is a detour map to check.

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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