Carlisle's Making Spirits Bright Holiday Parade
2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.
Carlisle's 'Making Spirits Bright' Holiday Parade is a cherished community event where participants showcase festive spirit with decorated floats and costumes. The parade winds through downtown, culminating in a special appearance by Santa Claus. Pre-registration is required to join the procession, which features various divisions from small groups to motorized vehicles and marching bands.
18+ Free
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Plan Your Visit
Last year
Neighborhood
Downtown Carlisle
Parking
Parking is available at Weis Markets, McCarren’s Supply, and Louther St. (North and South) Lots after 4:30 PM. Parking is NOT available in the Carlisle Alliance Church or Biddle Mission Park parking lots or parade staging streets. Drop off after 5:00 PM should take place at Weis Foods, McCarren’s Supply, or on East Street.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to secure parking, as lots fill up quickly and street closures begin around 5:00 PM.
- Ensure your parade entry is decorated and participants are in costume, as this is a requirement for participation.
- If you are participating, check your assigned staging area and report by 6:00 PM to check in and get your number.
- Remember that candy must be handed out by walkers, not thrown, to ensure spectator safety.
- In case of inclement weather, check email, Facebook, or call the provided number for announcements, as there is no make-up date.
Special Events & Promotions
- Santa Claus will appear at the end of the parade.
- Pre-registration is required for parade participants.
- The Fraternal Order of Eagles is sponsoring the event.
Links & Contact
Run by Carlisle Parks and Recreation
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 is the parade route?
The parade route starts at the intersection of North and East Streets, proceeds West on E. North Street to Hanover Street, and then South on Hanover Street to Willow Street where it concludes.
What are the requirements for parade participants?
Entries must be decorated and in costume, with drivers as the only exception. Candy must be handed out, not thrown. Specific rules apply to vehicle size, horn blowing, and performances along the route.
Where can spectators park?
Spectator parking is available at Weis Markets, McCarren’s Supply, and Louther St. (North and South) Lots after 4:30 PM. Parking is not permitted in staging areas.
What time should participants arrive?
Participants should report to their designated staging area by 6:00 PM to check in and receive their parade number.
What happens in case of bad weather?
The event is weather-dependent and will proceed rain or shine unless there is inclement weather. In case of cancellation, participants will be notified via email, Facebook, or phone. There is no make-up date.
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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.