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

The Decatur Christmas Parade

Spectators gather in downtown Decatur to watch a festive procession of illuminated community floats and entries. Participating units bring holiday spirit with music and glowing Christmas lights. The celebration also features an official appearance by Santa Claus.

Sat, Dec 5, 2026

Website / Tickets

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Plan Your Visit

Tickets

$25 for all parade entries. Checks should be made payable to Earthmover. All proceeds will go to Empowerment Opportunity Center.

Hours

Line-up 2:30pm; float judging begins at 3:30pm; step-off 4pm.

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

High

Tips & Advice

  • Parade units should mail the completed registration form and fee before the November 18 deadline to take part.
  • Equip your unit with at least 150 Christmas lights, and do not include another Santa, to meet parade entry requirements.
  • For parade-unit staging, enter from E. Cleveland Avenue and turn left after Waite’s Dry Cleaning.
  • Float entrants can be judged in the staging area, where the best float receives a cash prize.

Special Events & Promotions

  • A cash prize is awarded to the best float.
  • The staging-area entrance for parade units is now on E. Cleveland Avenue.

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

How can parade units register?

Download and print the registration form, then mail it with the registration fee to Decatur Earthmover Credit Union.

What requirements apply to parade entries?

Each unit must have at least 150 Christmas lights and must not include a Santa other than the parade’s Santa.

How is the best float chosen?

Floats are judged in the staging area, with a cash prize for the best float.

Where do parade units enter the staging area?

Use the staging-area entrance on E. Cleveland Avenue, turning left after Waite’s Dry Cleaning.

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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