Henderson, NC Christmas Parade 2026
The holiday season is just around the corner, and the 2026 Downtown Henderson Christmas Parade is scheduled for Saturday, December 5, at 2:30 p.m. in Henderson, North Carolina.
The annual parade brings the community together to celebrate the Christmas season with festive floats, decorated vehicles, marching bands, local organizations, and holiday music.
Residents and visitors are invited to come downtown, enjoy the festivities, and celebrate the season with family and friends.
Parade Registration Now Open
Businesses, schools, churches, civic organizations, marching groups, and other community groups interested in participating in this year’s parade are encouraged to register.
The registration deadline is Friday, November 20, 2026. All entries must submit a completed registration form, required documentation, and applicable entry fees by the deadline. Late entries will not be permitted.
Registration fees vary by entry type:
Standard entries: $55, including floats, walking groups, and vehicles.
School organizations: $25 per unit, excluding middle and high school marching bands.
Middle and high school marching bands: Free.
Fire trucks, ambulances, and military entries: Free.
Tractor-trailers and oversized trucks: $100 per entry.
All participating entries must feature a Christmas theme, and each organization must display a sign or banner identifying its group.
Motorcycles, horses, and three- or four-wheelers are not permitted. Additional participation requirements and safety guidelines are outlined in the official parade rules.
Interested participants should download and review the official 2026 Downtown Henderson Christmas Parade registration form and rules before submitting an entry.
Download the 2026 Christmas Parade Registration Form and Rules
Parade Day Information
The parade begins at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 5, 2026.
Parade participants will line up along Raleigh Road near Burger King, with floats, fire trucks, and vehicles with trailers beginning lineup at 1:15 p.m. All other entries should arrive beginning at 1:30 p.m. and no later than 2:00 p.m.
The parade will conclude on Rose Avenue. Parents picking up children who participate in the parade should meet them in the courthouse parking lot on Rose Avenue.
In the event of severe inclement weather, the parade will be canceled and will not be rescheduled.
Registration and Contact Information
Completed registration forms, required documentation, and applicable entry fees should be mailed to:
Downtown Development
207 N. Garnett Street
Henderson, NC 27536
Checks or money orders should be made payable to City of Henderson (Parade).
For additional information about parade registration, participation requirements, or other questions, contact Dr. Alice Clark Sallins, Parade Organizer, at 252-767-4579.
Mark your calendars for December 5 and join the Henderson community for an afternoon of Christmas cheer in downtown Henderson!