Illustration of a dog in a scarf sitting on Santa's knee for a photo while its owner laughs (Pacific Grove's Holiday Parade of Lights)

Pacific Grove's Holiday Parade of Lights

Spectators can watch an illuminated procession featuring marching bands, dance teams, animal groups, and holiday floats along Lighthouse Avenue. Following the theme 'A Storybook Christmas,' participants bring classic holiday tales to life with dazzling lights and creative costumes. The evening celebration also includes an appearance by Santa Claus.

Map It Details Official site

Advertisement

Plan Your Visit

When

Tickets

FREE.

Hours

6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Downtown Pacific Grove

Pets

The event invitation mentions celebrating with a furry friend but gives no further pet guidance.

Going?

Location

Downtown Pacific Grove · Lighthouse Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and holiday parade fans

Vibe

Festive and community-minded

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Submit a parade application if your business, school, organization, family, or community group wants to participate.
  • Prepare an entry around the “A Storybook Christmas” theme, using a holiday tale as inspiration.
  • Bring rain gear if needed, since the parade proceeds rain or shine.
  • Plan to watch for marching bands, floats, dance teams, animal groups, and Santa along the procession.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Parade participation is free.
  • Santa Claus appears in the parade.
  • The 2026 parade theme is “A Storybook Christmas.”

Links & Contact

Run by WhatsUpMonterey

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 can spectators see in the parade?

The procession features marching bands, holiday floats, dance teams, animal groups, and Santa Claus.

What is the 2026 parade theme?

The theme is “A Storybook Christmas.”

Does the parade go ahead in wet weather?

Yes. The parade is held rain or shine.

Can local groups participate?

Businesses, organizations, schools, families, and community groups are invited to take part. Download and submit a parade participant application.

Can I bring a furry friend?

The event invitation mentions celebrating with a furry friend, but gives no further pet guidance.

Featured Video

Browse Christmas in Monterey

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.

Contributors & Updates

Event details verified: