The Raleigh Christmas parade began in 1944, organized by the Greater Raleigh Merchants Association. The parade’s purpose was to bring people downtown and kick off the holiday shopping season. Over the decades, the parade has grown into a massive event, drawing crowds of over more than 60,000 spectators each year. By holding the parade the Saturday before Thanksgiving, organizers ensure that it sets the tone for the holidays while encouraging residents to support local shops.
The parade follows a 1.4 mile route through the heart of downtown Raleigh. It begins at Hillsborough Street and St. Mary’s Street, and it ends near the Raleigh Convention Center. Bella Fries, a student at Millbrook High School stated, “Getting to watch all of the floats coming down the street was always one of the greatest times of my childhood and something I will never forget.” Along the parade route, spectators are treated to a lively mix of different performances. High school and college marching bands play festive tunes, while many dance groups from studios and high schools show off their performances as they walk the route. Local businesses decorate floats with creative themes, while costumed characters wave to children lining the sidewalks. The highlight for many is the finale, when Santa Claus makes his grand entrance, signaling that Christmas is right around the corner.
Beyond the floats and marching bands, the Raleigh Christmas Parade has become a symbol of tradition and community pride. Families return year after year, often standing in the same spots along the route, creating life long memories. Parents who once attended as children now bring their own kids, passing down the excitement and the joy of the event. For many people, this parade marks the official start of the holiday season.
The parade also provides a stage for young performers to showcase their talents. Marching bands rehearse for weeks to perfect their music, while dance studios choreograph dances that will bring energy and excitement to the parade. For students, the chance to perform in front of tens of thousands of people is both nerve-wracking and exciting. Emerson Myers, a Millbrook Sophomore, explained, “The energy of the parade makes you feel like the holidays have officially begun. It is such a good feeling.”
Local businesses benefit greatly from the parade’s popularity. With thousands of people strolling up and down the downtown Raleigh streets, visiting local shops and restaurants. The partnership with Shop Local Raleigh emphasizes the importance of supporting all of the small businesses, especially during the holiday season.
Technology has also changed the way people experienced the parade. While thousands still line up and down the street, many tune in from home using ABC 11’s live broadcast. Social media has elevated the way people view the Raleigh Christmas Parade, with many people now sharing videos and photos across social media. This has caused the parade to reach far beyond Raleigh, drawing in people from all over.
The atmosphere is one of a kind. People watching the floats slowly pass while drinking hot chocolate are many people’s favorite memories. Behind the scenes, volunteers and city workers dedicate months of preparation to ensure that the event runs smoothly.
Looking back on the 81st parade, Raleigh residents are eager to see what the new additions to the parade will be in 2026. Whether it’s the creativity of the local businesses, or the talent of the student performers, each year brings something fresh to the celebration. The parade continues to grow while holding onto the traditions that make it special, proving that Raleigh’s holiday spirit is stronger than ever.
