38th Annual Grand Illumination Parade
Thousands of spectators gather in Downtown Norfolk to watch an illuminated holiday parade featuring colorful participants and glowing street displays. Celebrating its milestone anniversary, the parade lineup highlights creative interpretations of radiance through light, texture, color, and movement.
Sat, Nov 21, 2026 All ages
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Plan Your Visit
Hours
7:00 pm.
Neighborhood
Downtown Norfolk
Parking
Downtown Norfolk's SNAP MAP shows parking garages, surface lots and road closures.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Check Downtown Norfolk's SNAP MAP before you head out, because it shows parking garages, surface lots and road and street closures around downtown.
- Dress warmly, since this is an evening parade in late November and you will be standing outdoors along the downtown streets.
- Watch for the Ruby Radiance theme in each entry, because participants are interpreting radiance through color, movement, texture and light for the 40th anniversary.
- Sign up as a volunteer if you want a role on parade night, since the Grand Illumination Parade could not be produced without its volunteers.
Special Events & Promotions
- 40th anniversary parade with the theme Ruby Radiance
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
What is this year's parade theme?
The theme for the 40th anniversary is Ruby Radiance. It celebrates jewel tones and illuminated streets, and participants interpret radiance through color, movement, texture and light.
Can my group still enter the parade?
No. The lineup for the 40th Annual Grand Illumination Parade is already complete.
How can I volunteer?
The parade depends on its volunteers. You can sign up through the volunteer section of the Grand Illumination Parade page.
Can my business sponsor the parade?
Yes. Sponsorship levels include Presenting, Community, Contributing, Balloon and Bleacher sponsors, as well as a media partner.
Where can I park?
Downtown Norfolk's SNAP MAP shows parking garages and surface lots. It also shows road, street and sidewalk closures.
Browse Christmas in Norfolk
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.