The Parade
Ten-plus years of marching bands, shining floats, and neighbors shoulder to shoulder on Main Street.
Our Story
A Hometown Tradition
For more than ten years, the Fuquay-Varina Christmas Parade has kicked off the holiday season in downtown Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. What began as a small neighborhood march down Main Street has grown into a beloved town-wide celebration drawing thousands of spectators each December.
Our mission is simple: bring neighbors together, celebrate the season, and showcase the bands, churches, schools, businesses, and community groups that make Fuquay-Varina special. The parade is presented by the Writing, Music & Film Society and powered entirely by volunteers and community support.
10+
Years
1
Main St
100%
Volunteer
Parade Day
When & Where
The Date
Each December, on parade Sunday, downtown shuts down Main Street and the season officially begins. Watch this page and the shop for the announced date and step-off time.
The Place
Main Street, downtown Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. Storefronts glow with lights and the whole town turns out early to claim a curb.
The Route
Floats, bands, and community groups roll straight down Main Street through the heart of downtown, cheered on by thousands of spectators.
Float Competitions
Two Trophies, Endless Lights
Best Float / Best All-Round Contest
Businesses, clubs, and organizations spend weeks building their rolling masterpieces. Judges look for creativity, craftsmanship, presentation, and holiday spirit as they select the Best Float and Best All-Round winners.
"Shining Star" Church Float Competition
A beloved tradition within the tradition: congregations across Fuquay-Varina compete for the Shining Star trophy, awarded to the church float that shines brightest on parade night.
Participants
March With Us
The parade is community-powered, and there's a place in the lineup for you. Marching bands, dance teams, scout troops, churches, schools, and local businesses all take part each year.
- Register a band, float, or performance group when applications open each fall.
- March with your school, troop, congregation, or business — groups of every size are welcome.
- Enter the Best Float Contest or the Shining Star Church Float Competition.
Spectator Tips
- Arrive early — the best curbs on Main Street fill up well before step-off.
- Bring folding chairs, blankets, and something warm to drink.
- Stop by the merchandise tent, or order online here and wear your gear to the parade.
Can't Make It Downtown?
Watch the Parade Live
The Fuquay-Varina Christmas Parade streams live on Facebook and YouTube so family, friends, and former neighbors near and far can share in the celebration. Tune in on parade day at 4:00 PM and watch the floats, bands, and Santa roll down Main Street in real time.
Set a reminder and join us online — the live stream begins a few minutes before step-off.
Gallery
Scenes from the Route
