Christmas Parade of Lights

Thank you for joining the 2026 Christmas Parade of Lights on Saturday, December 5! This year's theme is "O' Christmas Tree!"—let your creativity shine as we bring the holiday spirit to life!

Check-in Details

• Time: Check-in begins at 5:30 PM, with the parade starting promptly at 7:00 PM.
• Location: Church & Crawford (all participants must check in here).

Awards and Judging

To be eligible for awards, please submit your application by 12 PM on Wednesday, December 2, 2025. First-place prizes of $100 will be awarded in each of three categories:

1. Band/Performing Group (No Float)
2. Organization Float
3. Business Float

Entries will be judged on:

1. Creativity and Originality
2. Spirit and Enthusiasm
3. Visual Appeal and Presentation
4. Note: Music and holiday lights are highly encouraged to add sparkle to the festivities!

Entry Identification

All entries must be clearly identified by:

1. Affixing a sign (provided at checkin) as directed with the organization or business name and/or entry number for judged entries.
2. Providing a detailed description of your entry on the application form.

Parade Rules and Regulations

1. Santa Claus Representation: Only the City-provided Santa Claus is allowed; no life-like Santas on any entry.
2. Vehicle Insurance: If your entry includes a vehicle, upload current proof of insurance. Multiple vehicles (e.g., car clubs) require proof of insurance at check-in.
3. Lights: All entries must include Christmas lights.
4. Theme Incorporation: Entries must reflect the parade theme for judging eligibility.
5. Waivers & Insurance: Signed waivers and insurance documents are required for participation.
6. Child Safety: No walking children under 12, no bicycles for children under 12 are allowed, and no toy vehicles.
7. Vehicle Movement: Excessive movement, such as wheelies or engine revving, is prohibited.
8. Disbanding: Early disbanding or rider drop-off outside designated areas may result in future bans.
9. Equine Entries: Equine entries must present current Coggins papers at check-in and provide a volunteer walking immediately behind to clean up after horses.
10. Entry Approval: The City of Palestine reserves the right to accept or reject any application.
11. Conduct: Obscene music, language, or actions will not be tolerated.
12. Candy Distribution: Candy and other materials may be handed out, not thrown, by walkers alongside entries.
13. 18-Wheelers: 18-wheelers with trailers are not permitted; cabs without trailers are allowed.

We look forward to celebrating the holiday season with you in this year’s Parade of Lights!