2026 Chico Parade of Lights

Name: 2026 Chico Parade of Lights
Start: 2026-12-05T18:00:00-08:00
End: 2026-12-05T19:00:00-08:00
Location: Downtown Chico

Presented by Chico Parade of Lights at Downtown Chico in Downtown Chico

Sat · Dec 5 · 6:00 PM

Sat Dec 5 6:00 PM–7:00 PM

Event Details

Join Chico’s first-ever Christmas Parade on Sat, Dec 5, 2026, at 6 PM in Downtown Chico! Featuring Santa Claus as Grand Marshal, illuminated floats, and holiday cheer.

More details

Date and Time: Saturday, December 5, 2026; 6:00 PM–7:00 PM; View all Dates
Venue: Downtown Chico, Downtown Chico338 Broadway Street, Chico, CA, 95928; Venue Details
Admission: Details to be announced; Admission Details

About This Event

On behalf of the Bright Futures for Kids Foundation and the Board of Directors, the beloved Chico Parade of Lights returns to Downtown Chico on Saturday, December 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM.

Marking an exciting historic milestone since its inception in 1989, the parade moves to December for the first time as Chico’s first official Christmas Parade, featuring Santa Claus as Honorary Grand Marshal!

2026 Theme: “Celebrating Our Community in the Spirit of Christmas”

After logistical hurdles threatened to cancel the 2026 event, the parade was saved through an overwhelming groundswell of local support. Working collaboratively with city officials, civic leaders, nonprofit partners, and local businesses, the community rallied together to keep this nearly 40-year tradition alive. This year’s parade honors that resilient spirit, unity, and generosity.

How to Participate

Spectators: Line the downtown route with friends and family to see dazzling illuminated entries, marching bands, and Santa Claus.
Float Entries: Showcase your business, club, or school group in this historic nighttime procession.
Volunteers: Join the event-day crew to assist with staging, line-up, and safety marshaling.
Sponsorships: Support youth initiatives and holiday community programming.

Event Details