Champaign Center Parade of Lights
Spectators gather along the streets of Downtown to view more than fifty illuminated floats and marching bands. The procession features Santa Claus, who arrives to officially mark the start of the holiday season. The event concludes near the Downtown Plaza, where Santa lights the community tree for friends and family to gather underneath.
Sat, Nov 28, 2026 All ages
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Plan Your Visit
Hours
5:00 PM start.
Neighborhood
Downtown Champaign
Location
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to choose a viewing spot along the route, as the event page recommends securing a spot for the best parade view.
- Bundle up for the outdoor parade and tree lighting, where spectators watch along Downtown streets before gathering near the Plaza.
- Stay near the parade route to watch Santa light the tree near Downtown Plaza when the procession ends.
- Keep candy handoffs safe: float participants may hand candy to spectators, but throwing candy is not allowed.
- If volunteering, check the role’s age rule: most roles require volunteers to be 14+, Safety Squad requires 16+, and younger volunteers need a parent onsite and a waiver.
Special Events & Promotions
- The parade has a new start time this year.
- Santa appears in the parade and lights the tree on November 28.
Links & Contact
Run by Champaign Center Partnership
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
What can spectators see in the parade?
More than fifty lighted floats, marching bands and Santa Claus travel through Downtown. Santa lights the tree near the Downtown Plaza after the parade.
Can a group, company or organization join the parade?
Yes. Floats must include lights, and candy may be handed to parade-goers but not thrown. Registration information is coming soon.
Who can volunteer?
Most volunteer roles are for people aged 14 and over. Safety Squad volunteers must be 16 and over; younger volunteers can take part with a parent onsite and a waiver.
What else is happening alongside the parade?
Winter Fest is a separate all-day celebration with a market, Santa visits, live music, a kids’ zone, carolers and holiday decorations.
Are horse-drawn carriage rides available?
The event page promotes carriage rides through Downtown Champaign, with more information to come.
Browse Christmas in Champaign
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.