Rock Island Holiday Balloon Parade
Spectators line the streets of downtown Davenport to experience the largest helium balloon parade in the Midwest. The festive procession features giant helium balloons, marching bands, and floats making their way along the parade route. Viewers can also watch the festivities broadcast live on television.
Sat, Nov 21, 2026 All ages Free.
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Plan Your Visit
Hours
10 am.
Neighborhood
Downtown Davenport
Parking
It says the City of Davenport's ParkMobile App can be used to digitally access the parking ramp system.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Download the City of Davenport's ParkMobile app before you go so you can use the downtown parking ramps.
- If your group wants to march, ride or bring a float, submit a parade application before the October 15 deadline.
- If you can't make it downtown, watch the coverage on KWQC, since it's the only televised parade in the Quad Cities.
- After the parade, head to RiverCenter for Festival of Trees opening day, where kids can visit Santa and get balloons twisted.
- Dress warmly for standing outside along the downtown Davenport parade route on a late-November morning.
Special Events & Promotions
- Festival of Trees opens the same day at RiverCenter, with Santa visits and balloon twisting (separate admission).
Links & Contact
Run by Quad City Arts
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's in the parade?
There are helium balloons, bands and floats. It's the largest helium balloon parade in the Midwest.
Can I watch it on TV?
Yes. KWQC covers the parade, and it's the only televised parade in the Quad Cities.
Where should I park?
Downtown Davenport has thousands of public parking spaces. There are free and paid options, both on-street and off-street. You can use the City of Davenport's ParkMobile app for the parking ramps.
How can my group be in the parade?
Fill out the parade application before the October 15 deadline.
Is there anything else to do that day?
Festival of Trees opens the same day at RiverCenter, 136 E. 3rd St. It has Santa visits and balloon twisting in the children's area. Festival of Trees has separate admission.
Browse Christmas in Davenport
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.