Parade of Lights & Chili Cook-Off
2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.
Experience the magic of Christmas in Dodge City with the beloved Parade of Lights and Chili Cook-Off. This community celebration brings residents and visitors together for an evening filled with holiday spirit, featuring a dazzling parade, a savory chili competition, and festive activities for all ages. Don't miss the chance to create lasting holiday memories.
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Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
Tickets
$
Ages
All ages
Featured Performers
- DCHS Madrigals
Food & Drink
Chili Cook Off with Public Sampling, Hot Chocolate, Hotdog Party
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the Parade of Lights, as it's a popular community event.
- Bring cash for potential purchases at food vendors or for any small entry fees associated with sampling chili.
- Check the 'Christmas in Dodge City' Facebook page closer to the event date for any last-minute updates or schedule changes.
- Consider entering a float in the Parade of Lights or competing in the Chili Cook-Off to be an active part of the celebration.
- Dress warmly, as the event takes place in the evening during the holiday season, and hot chocolate may not be enough to keep you fully warm.
Special Events & Promotions
- Enter a float in the Parade of Lights
- Compete in the Chili Cook-Off
- Santa Photos courtesy of Main Street Dodge City
- Hot Chocolate courtesy of the Dodge City Salvation Army
- Building Solutions Snowball Drop
- Long Branch Lagoon Hotdog Party
- Prize Giveaways
Links & 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
When will registration for the 2025 Parade of Lights and Chili Cook-Off open?
Registration for both the 2025 Parade of Lights and Chili Cook-Off will reopen in early November.
What are the main attractions at the event?
The event features a Chili Cook Off with public sampling, Santa Photos, hot chocolate, a snowball drop, a hotdog party, performances by the DCHS Madrigals, prize giveaways, and the Mayor's Tree Lighting Ceremony, culminating in the Parade of Lights.
Who organizes the Christmas in Dodge City events?
The planning committee includes representatives from the City of Dodge City, Dodge City Convention and Visitors Bureau, Dodge City Area Chamber of Commerce, Dodge City Globe, Main Street Dodge City, Western Kansas Broadcast Center, and Victory Electric Cooperative.
Where can I find more information about the event?
More information will be updated on this page and the 'Christmas in Dodge City' Facebook page. You can also reach out to the Dodge City Convention and Visitors Bureau at 620-225-8186.
Is there a cost to attend the Parade of Lights?
While specific pricing for all activities is not detailed, the event is generally community-focused. Sampling the chili may involve a fee, and some activities like Santa photos are noted as courtesy of sponsors.
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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.