Champaign Center Parade of Lights

Downtown Champaign will be illuminated in hues of blue this November 27th for the return of the 21st Annual Parade of Lights presented by Christie Clinic. This beloved community event kicks off the shop local holiday season in the heart of downtown Champaign and will feature lighted floats, marching bands, and live entertainment.

This year’s parade theme is Blue Christmas/Holidays. Bring your loved ones to this festive event that includes free activities for kids and entertainment for the whole family. Pre-parade activities begin at 3:00 p.m. and will include visits with Santa, horse and carriage rides, a candy crawl for kids, and musical entertainment.

All parade entries must include lights. Candy will be off limits this year during the parade procession, instead float entries can donate candy to an inaugural “candy crawl” occurring throughout downtown before the parade.

The Champaign Center Partnership Elvis elves are working around the clock to make sure that Santa Claus is ready to ride in his sleigh up Neil Street. Close to 100 volunteers will be needed to assist with set up, decorations, parade safety and more. Please contact the CCP to volunteer at this year’s Parade of Lights.

The Parade of Lights float entry forms, volunteer sign up form, and sponsorship packets are available at ChampaignCenter.com. For more information, please contact the Champaign Center Partnership at 217-352-2400.