Parade of Lights
SAVE THE DATE!
The next Parade of Lights is November 25, 2023.
The 23rd annual Champaign Center Parade of Lights presented by Christie Clinic returns on Saturday, November 25, 2023! This FREE community event is on Small Business Saturday and marks the official start off the holiday season! Come to downtown Champaign early to enjoy more festivities including an indoor market, horse and carriage rides, visits with Santa Claus, and more!
Questions about the event? Contact Jenna at parade (at) champaigncenter.com
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Sponsor the Parade
Join us in creating holiday cheer by becoming an event sponsor! A variety of sponsorship opportunities are provided to help you make an impact in the community. All sponsorships go to support the Champaign Center Partnership, a nonprofit 501(c)(6) that organizes the event each year. Sponsors also receive substantial advertising benefits and recognition.
Volunteer during the Parade
Be a part of the magic by volunteering for the 23rd Annual Parade of Lights. There are many different options to choose from that will get you front and center for the big event. We ask that all volunteers be 15 years of age or older and all volunteers under the age of 18 will need to provide guardian information before being allowed to participate.
As a way to say thanks, all Parade of Lights volunteers will receive a complimentary Parade beanie and will be invited to our Holiday Party in December (to be announced).
Enter a Float into the Parade
Help us create an extraordinary event by entering the Parade of Lights! Businesses, civic groups, and non-profits are encouraged to take part in this magical experience.
Float entry fee: Early registration is $50 for non-profits and $100 for businesses until Oct. 31. $75 for non-profits and $150 for businesses until November 15 or until full. Float submissions will be limited to 65 total entries on a first-come, first-serve basis.
All parade entries will be judged by a guest panel of judges and a winner will be selected for the following categories:
- Best Use of Parade Theme
- Best Lights
- Best Marchers
- Best Vehicle
- Best Float/Trailer
Parade Activities & Festivities
Pre-parade activities and festivities will give the whole family something to do! See Santa Claus himself, take a carriage ride, get specialty, and more. Details to be announced later.
Mistletoe Market
10a-6p, Orpheum Theatre, 346 N Neil St
FREE to browse
Horse & Carriage Rides
1p-5p, North of the Orpheum Theatre, 346 N Neil St
Advance tickets only
Visit With
Santa
2:30p-5:30p, Location TBD
FREE
Sponsors
