Experience the ultimate in festive cheer with a classic community holiday parade! From “big city” extravaganzas with floats and balloons to charming small-town marches, the Philadelphia region is full of festive events to kick off the season.
This guide has the 10 “can’t-miss” holiday parades, complete with dates, routes, and tips. Parades are a one-day-only event, so mark your calendar now!
The “Big City” Vibe
These large-scale parades feature all the classics: floats, balloons, marching bands, and big crowds.
Harrisburg Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting
- What it is: A massive “big city” style parade with floats, balloons, and marching bands to kick off the season.
- Dates: Nov 21–22
- Location: Downtown Harrisburg
- Good for: A full-day event with a big-city feel
- Official Website →
Holiday Weekends in West Chester
- What it is: West Chester’s beloved Hometown Christmas Parade and tree lighting, a massive event that takes over the borough.
- Dates: Dec 5
- Location: Downtown West Chester
- Good for: A high-energy “big town” parade, festive nightlife
- Official Website →
The “Ultimate Charm” Parades
These events are more than just parades—they are town-wide celebrations where the festive atmosphere is the main attraction.
Christmas in Cape May
- What it is: Not just one parade, but a town-wide Victorian celebration with candlelight tours, trolley rides, and historic home displays.
- Dates: Nov 22–Dec 27
- Location: Throughout Cape May, NJ
- Good for: A full holiday weekend getaway, charming atmosphere
- Official Website →
West Cape May Christmas Parade
- What it is: A long-running, beloved, and quirky community holiday parade with floats, music, and holiday cheer. A true local institution.
- Dates: Dec 6
- Location: West Cape May, NJ
- Good for: A free, classic parade with quirky local flavor
- Official Website →
Kennett Square Holiday Light Parade
- What it is: An evening light parade and tree lighting to kick off the holiday season. Santa and Mrs. Claus parade through town.
- Dates: Nov 22
- Location: State Street, Kennett Square
- Good for: A magical evening light-up event, post-parade drinks/dinner
- Official Website →
Classic Small Town Parades
The heart of the holidays! Local organizations run these hometown parades and are full of community spirit.
Lansdale Holiday Mardi Gras Parade
- What it is: The 74th annual Holiday Mardi Gras Parade. The 2025 theme is “All of the Holidays.” Expect music, dancing, scouts, and antique cars.
- Dates: Nov 22
- Location: Lansdale
- Good for: A long-running tradition, “Mardi Gras” festive energy
- Official Website →
Coatesville Christmas Parade
- What it is: A classic parade down Lincoln Highway with float awards. Features “quiet blocks” for those sensitive to sirens and horns.
- Dates: Dec 6
- Location: Coatesville
- Good for: A sensory-friendly option, classic floats
- Official Website →
Downingtown Good Neighbor Christmas
- What it is: The annual parade goes on a 1.7-mile route, featuring local dance groups, bands, and scouts showing their hometown spirit.
- Dates: Dec 13
- Location: Downingtown
- Good for: A classic “Good Neighbor” community feel
- Official Website →
Harrington Christmas Tree Lighting & Parade
- What it is: A fun, themed parade in Delaware. The 2025 theme is “Christmas at the Movies!”
- Dates: Dec 5
- Location: Harrington, DE
- Good for: A fun, themed parade in Delaware
- Official Website →
Marydel Fire Co. Christmas Parade
- What it is: A classic volunteer fire company holiday parade. Head to the firehouse after the parade to meet Santa!
- Dates: Dec 7
- Location: Marydel, DE
- Good for: A true small-town feel, meeting Santa
- Official Website →
Tips for Attending a Holiday Parade
- Arrive Very Early: For popular holiday parades (especially West Cape May and West Chester), people arrive in advance to claim a spot.
- Check the Route: Know where the parade starts and ends. You can often find easier parking and fewer crowds near the beginning or end of the route.
- Bring a Bag (and a Thermos): Bring a bag for any candy that might be tossed, and a thermos of hot cocoa to stay warm!
- Check for Rain/Snow Dates: These are one-day, weather-dependent events. Always check the official website or Facebook page before you leave the house.
Looking for More Holiday Fun?
Don’t miss the rest of the 2025 holiday coverage! Head back to the Ultimate Guide to Holiday & Winter Events in Philadelphia to find the best markets, light displays, historic tours, and more.
Photo from Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce.
