80th Annual Christmas Parade

Applications will go live on September 28 @ 8am, this page will be updated with the link to the application.
Before submitting your application, you must read the RULES & REGULATIONS document thoroughly. 

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS THE APPLICATION PAGE

Curious about when and where the enchantment unfolds? Here are the details you need:

Date of Parade: The City of Temple Christmas Parade is always held on the first Monday in December - the 2026 parade will be on Monday, December 7.

Parade Commencement: The grand spectacle begins at 6:30 pm, launching a procession of over 100 entrants through the vibrant route. Get ready for a mesmerizing journey lasting about 90 minutes.
 

As the city comes alive with lights, music, and joy, make sure to be part of this memorable evening. The City of Temple's Annual Christmas Parade is a celebration you won't want to miss!

The tree lighting will be taking place on Saturday, November 28 at Santa Fe Plaza - mark your calendars so you don't miss out!

Join us as The City of Temple proudly presents the 80^th Annual Christmas Parade, a cherished holiday tradition that had stood as one of Central Texas’ yuletide highlights since 1946. Be part of the magic on the first Monday in December as we welcome Santa Claus into the heart of Downtown Temple!

This year, the theme is "An 80’s Christmas,” so bust out the Aqua Net, your acid-wash jeans, and leg warmers and let’s get so excited we just can’t hide it for this year’s Christmas Parade!

If you are considering entering the parade, please read this RULES AND REGULATIONS document thoroughly. The applicant will be responsible and shall agree to the rules and regulations set by the City of Temple prior to the submission of parade application.

All entries must reflect a Christmas/holiday theme, or the theme chosen by the City and must not be predominantly commercial or political in nature. Bands, individuals, and groups are encouraged to represent the parade theme with their costumes, vehicles, and/or floats.

PARADE DATE: Monday, December 7, 2026 @ 6:30pm

DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES: Applications are accepted on a first come first serve basis and must be submitted online @ templetxevents.com by TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2026 @ 5pm

ENTRY FEES: Entry fees support the continuation of the Christmas Parade and are NON-REFUNDABLE. The entry fee includes the opportunity to be judged and compete for various prize amounts - judging is not a requirement.

• Commercial/Retail Businesses: $70
• All Other: $40 (residents, churches, private schools, non-profit organizations, service clubs, professional organizations, etc.)
• Tax Supported Entities: NO FEE (public schools, military, Police & Fire Departments, etc.) unless the entry requires an additional space and/or requests to be judged
  • Judging Fee: $40 – make sure to add this to your cart under the “3. Prices” page (Tax Supported Entities only!)

• Additional Space: $40 for (1) additional 40ft space – make sure to add this to your cart under the “3. Prices” page
  • Extra space will be limited to 1 extra space per entry, if you require more than 80ft total (2 spaces) you MUST contact us to discuss your needs so we can work on accommodating your entry.

The following items must be submitted for your application to be considered for participation.

1. Completed online application
2. Paid appropriate entry fee
3. Waiver of Liability (signed by one member of your entry)

MANDATORY PRE-PARADE KICK-OFF & SAFETY MEETING
Santa Fe Community Market located at 33 E Ave C
Tuesday, November 17 @ 6pm
The Pre-Parade Safety Meeting will be the only opportunity for the applicant, drivers and participants will have to ask questions and for the City of Temple to stress the importance of having a safe parade.
Safety is a shared responsibility of EVERYONE involved in the parade.

 

ACCEPTANCE: No individual or group will be permitted to take part in the parade without prior approval of the City. Acceptance into the parade is based upon the submission of a completed application. The City reserves the right to dismiss any entry from the parade route if it differs greatly from the original description in the application.
Submitting an application DOES NOT guarantee a spot in the parade – we have moved to an approval/rejection based system. PLEASE make sure that the email used to apply is an email that is checked on a regular basis.
Payment method will not be charged unless the entry has been approved.

PARADE ROUTE: The parade starts at the intersection of E Adams Ave and N 6^th St, proceeds west along Adams Ave in front of City Hall, all the way to N 23^rd St and then turns north and disbands at Temple High School. Total distance from the staging around to destaging area is approximately 1.5 miles.

ENTRY JUDGING: If an entry would like to be considered for parade judging, that must be indicated on the application. It is not required that an entry be judged. Judges are appointed by the City and the lead event coordinator will decide any tie breakers should there be any. All decisions are final and may not be challenged. Entries violating the parade rules and regulations will forfeit any award. Judging will occur from several locations along the route on the day of the parade.
If you are applying as a Tax Supported Entity, and you wish to be judged, you MUST pay the judging fee. 

Entries will be judged on three equal criteria:

• Outstanding accomplishment
  • Showcase of craftmanship, and overall quality of the float
• Creativity
• Originality in projecting the parade theme

The winners will be posted on templetxevents.com no later than the Wednesday following the parade.

AWARDS:

Along with the 10 float entry winners we will also be awarding the 6 News Spirit Award to the entry with the most holiday spirit!

• The purpose of the 6 News Spirit Award is to give the marching / walking units an opportunity to showcase their holiday spirit. These units aren’t able to compete, in the same capacity, with the detailed and elaborate floats for judging so this gives them the chance to be recognized for their contribution to the parade.
  ***There is no cash prize associated with this award.

 A total of 10 awards will be given to the entries that have opted in for judging as follows:

1^st Place – Trophy and $800
2^nd Place – Trophy and $600
3^rd Place – Trophy and $400
4^th Place – Plaque and $300
5^th Place – Plaque and $200
6^th Place - 10^th Place – Plaques and $100 each

***Award winners must submit their W9 and Vendor Info Sheet, which will be sent to award winners via email, within 30 days to receive their prize. Failure to do so will result in a forfeiture of prize winnings.

PARADE GUIDELINES: The applicant is responsible for the conduct of its participants and agrees to notify all participants of these rules and regulations.

The safety of every single person involved in this parade is our first and main priority, the rules and regulations laid out in this document are specifically tailored to ensure everyone has a safe and wonderful time at the parade!  

• ABSOLUTELY no candy or other enticements shall be thrown/handed from any entry. Anyone violating this rule will be removed immediately.
  • Children can be seriously injured by running in front of oncoming entries while trying to retrieve candy/handouts. This is considered industry standard.
• WALKERS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO HAND MATERIALS TO SPECTATORS
• The City of Temple’s Santa Claus will close out the parade on the final float. The City an “official” Santa Claus for the final float. Replicas of Santa Claus or Mrs. Claus or persons dressed as Santa Claus or Mrs. Claus will not be allowed in the parade. No other live or life-size likeness of Santa Claus or Mrs. Claus is permitted, although replications of reindeer, sleighs, elves, etc. are acceptable. Any group failing to adhere to this will be removed from the lineup. Santa hats are permitted.
• Costumes worn by parade participants must conform to the standards of reasonable public taste. Costumes are to be Christmas/holiday themed or aligned with the theme of the parade, family friendly, and reflect bright and festive colors.
  • BRIGHT and FESTIVE clothing is required - this is a nighttime parade; we want the parade attendees to see you shine!
    • Team uniforms are permitted - Santa or elf hat must be worn

DECORATIONS: Entries must have a minimum of 1000 lights total and reflect a Christmas/holiday theme or the theme of the parade - the light requirement has been increased for safety and aesthetic purposes. The more lights the better! No vehicles will be permitted to participate in the Parade that are not decorated in accordance with the FLOATS & DECORATED VEHICLES section in this document.
If your vehicle is not decorated or lit to the standard set here, you will be asked to leave the line up and will no longer be allowed to participate in the parade.

• MUSIC: Music is encouraged. Only Christmas/holiday theme music will be allowed. Entries having music or sound amplifying systems shall maintain a volume that will not interfere with other entries.
  • Music must be kept on for the ENTIRE length of the parade. Music can be turned off when entry enters the de-staging area.
  • In order to give the attendees a cohesive experience, specific requirements for music selection may be implemented at the City’s discretion at any time.
• Signage should be limited to a traditional Christmas/holiday greeting, identifying the sponsoring organization, and/or the theme of the float. All other signs are prohibited unless previously authorized by the City.
• NO CHANGES TO YOUR ENTRY: Your parade entry must arrive at the parade location as it is described on your entry form. No changes are permitted to your entry after the entry deadline.
• The use of alcoholic beverages or illegal substances is strictly prohibited before and during the parade. Violators will be prosecuted.
• The standard space allotted for each entry is 40ft in length.
• The use of sirens or horns is prohibited.
• Laser lights are not permitted due to safety considerations.
• COMMENTARY: Please provide a 15-second script about your entry that can be read by our announcers as your entry passes the stage located at City Hall.
  • The deadline to submit entry commentary is WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2026. Information received after that date may not be included in the parade script. Participants are solely liable for the accuracy of the commentary provided.
  • The entry commentary can be included in the initial entry form, or it can be emailed to the lead coordinator of the parade.
• Parade entries must follow instructions from the City, parade volunteers, and Police Officers. Failure to follow instructions will result in immediate removal from the parade line up.

FLOATS & DECORATED VEHICLES:

FLOATS ARE DEFINED AS: a decorated trailer or decorated self-propelled vehicle (vehicle body must be concealed)

DECORATED VEHICLES ARE DEFINED AS: a vehicle that is decorated with vehicle body still visible and identifiable, but NOT towing a trailer that is also decorated

Floats and vehicles must display Christmas lights with a minimum of 1000 lights and reflect a Christmas/holiday theme.

• Automobiles must be driven by a licensed vehicle operator and be covered under an auto insurance policy.
• Participants must be in costume according to the parade theme. No other live or life-size likeness or Santa Claus or Mrs. Claus is permitted.
• No participants may jump on a float or interfere with any other entry in any way while the float is in motion. Participants shall not dismount from a float during the parade route.
• Participants will not have body parts, particularly legs and feet, extending past the sides, front or rear of the float. This is an extreme safety hazard!
• Drivers must stay with their float/trailer from the time they arrive to the time the parade ends.
• Vehicle headlights must be turned off or covered - please remember to turn them back on or uncover them before you leave the Temple High School parking lot.
• Each participating organization shall procure its own trailer and pulling vehicle.
• The float must have a safety chain attached to the towing vehicle in addition to the hitch.
• Fireproof or fire-resistant materials should be used whenever possible. A fire extinguisher, Type ABC, is recommended for each vehicle. No live flames, open or enclosed, will be allowed.
• It is recommended that floats should have skirts around the lower part of the structure. Floats and/or miscellaneous vehicles must be completely decorated.
• Vehicles towing floats would be enhanced in appearance if decorated and it is highly encouraged.
• Any combination vehicle which is connected using a fifth-wheel assembly should not exceed 40ft in length as measured from the forward most vehicle component to the rearmost component of the trailer.
  • Maximum width: 12ft
  • Maximum length: 40ft
  • Maximum height: 13ft

***Entries must not exceed 40ft in length without purchasing an additional space. If you require more than 80ft total (2 spaces) you MUST contact us to discuss your needs so we can work on accommodating your entry. 

• Each entry with open air riders must be escorted down the ENTIRE PARADE ROUTE by a minimum of four walkers, one at each corner of the float.
  • Walkers should remain in their positions for the entirety of the parade. These walkers may not hand out anything (candy, coupons, etc.) to the crowd or lead animals as they walk. Your presence is needed for safety and not for interaction with those viewing the parade.

MARCHING BANDS & WALKING AND PERFORMANCE GROUPS:

MARCHING BANDS ARE DEFINED AS: a group of people playing instruments while marching / walking

WALKING AND PERFORMANCE GROUPS ARE DEFINED AS: a group of people marching / walking without playing any instruments

With the exception of Marching Bands, entries that have more than 50 people in their group must contact the City before submitting their application. 

Must be able to travel the entire parade route from the staging area to N 6^th St along Adams Ave to N 23^rd St, a total of 1.5 miles.  

• Only Christmas/holiday music will be allowed.
• Participants must be in BRIGHT and FESTIVE colors, or Christmas/holiday costumes.
  • Team uniforms are permitted - Santa or elf hat must be worn
• Performances by bands or dance groups must by accomplished while maintaining the pace of the parade and be performed on the move.
  • DO NOT stop and perform along the parade route or in front of the judge’s stand.
• The name of the group or organization must be displayed on an identification banner. The letters shall be a minimum of 8in in height and easily seen. The banner shall precede the entry.
• NO ACROBATIC STUNTS, including but not limited to gymnastics and cheerleading acrobatics. This will not be permitted, and any such attempts are cause for removal from the parade and refusal to participate in future parades.
• Participants under the age of 10 years old or who are not in the 5^th grade or above may ride on a float or vehicle but may not march or walk in the parade.
  • Walkers must remain walkers for the entirety of the parade.
• No vehicle will accompany marching or walking groups unless a separate application is submitted for the vehicle, to include payment of the separate application fee.
  • This includes bands and ROTC units.

ANIMALS

• No pets allowed.

PARADE LINE-UP: notification of your entry’s position will be given out at the mandatory Pre-Parade Kick-Off & Safety Meeting.

• Line-up position is determined by the City to establish variety. Realignment cannot be considered. Accurate description including the LENGTH of your group/float on your application is vital in determining your placement in the parade.
• The representative attending the line-up meeting must always remain with the entry.
• Non-parade vehicles are not permitted in the staging area.
• The City will designate appropriate drop-off and pick-up locations. Each entry is responsible for getting their participants to and from their entry.
• Line up begins at 4pm. Please be patient as we get all floats in their designated location.
• Entries not in position by 5pm will forfeit their participation. Due to high volume traffic, we strongly recommend planning extra time for arrival.
• It is the responsibility of each entry to keep your staging and parade location free of any trash.
• MOVEMENT OF PARADE: all entries must keep moving forward and not stop on the parade route at any time. Intentional delay or stopping will not be allowed and could be cause for removal or non-acceptance in future parades.
• Should any entry allow a space of greater than 50ft between itself and the preceding entry to occur anytime during the parade, said entry shall immediately be removed from the parade.
• All entries are required to close large gaps between entries as instructed by parade officials. Failure to do so may result in removal from the parade. Please keep up the pace.

PARADE NUMBER: The parade number must be visible to ensure the announcers can identify your float and announce your information. Vehicle headlights must be off or covered. Participants will receive their parade number at the mandatory Pre-Parade Kick-Off & Safety Meeting.

MANDATORY PRE-PARADE KICK-OFF & SAFETY MEETING: This is a mandatory meeting that MUST be attended by at least one representative from your group and ALL drivers. Any entry that does not attend this meeting will risk removal and disqualification from the parade.  

• At this meeting, you will be given your official parade packet, which includes your entry number (location within the parade), maps, parking locations, participant and judging information, and more. We will answer questions after the presentation of the parade packets.
• Don’t rely only on passing out copies of your packets. You need to meet with your group to discuss the line up process, parade participation, and de-staging plan. Make sure whoever attends the mandatory meeting can also relay this information to your group in a way that all involved will understand.

WAIVER OF LIABILITY

On behalf of the Firm/Organization/Individuals noted above and all persons in the Entry described above, I the undersigned have been given the authority to sign on behalf of the Entry and all persons directly and indirectly related to the Entry. I do hereby forever release and hold harmless the City of Temple, its officers, employees, agents, and assigns from any liability for all claims, demands, injuries, actions, or causes of actions, whether at common law or by statute, to me or my child or property arising out of or connected with participation in this program/event, including all claims for injury or illness (up to and including death) or loss, whether to persons or property (including loss of use).

I also hereby agree to indemnify the City and its employees, officers, agents, and assigns for any claims which are advanced by me or on my behalf, or because of any injury, illness, or loss which I may incur from my, Firm/Organization/Individuals participation in this event. This waiver and indemnity agreement extends to all expenses, including damages, court costs, and attorney’s fees, whether such claim arises in whole or in part from the intentional or negligent acts or omissions of the City of Temple, its officers, employees, agents, or assigns. I also give permission for any photographs taken during these activities to be utilized for promotional purposes by the City of Temple and in the future.  I have read and agree to comply with the City of Temple Parade Information, rules and regulations and all directions of the parade officials.

 

VIOLATION OF RULES AND REGULATIONS:

Anyone that violates any part of the above rules and regulations will first be given a verbal or written warning, upon second such violation, may be asked to leave the parade. The City of Temple has the right to remove any entry from the parade at its sole discretion. Entries may also not be permitted to participate in future parades.

 

 

For more information, please contact:

Chelsea Butler - Special Events Coordinator, Parade Lead Coordinator

clbutler@templetx.gov

O: 254.298.5418 | M: 254.493.6337

Curious about the orchestrators behind the Annual Christmas Parade? Look no further than the dedicated teams across various departments within the City of Temple, including the invaluable contributions of our dedicated volunteers!

Year after year, these creative minds and selfless volunteers collaborate to bring to life this enchanting holiday event, weaving together captivating themes, fostering community involvement, and ensuring a warm, family-friendly experience for everyone.

Join us in embracing the holiday spirit as we create moments filled with joy, laughter, and community connection. The City of Temple takes pride in presenting this extraordinary event, and we can't wait to celebrate the magic of the season with you!

The application for the 2026 parade will open on Monday, September 28 at 8am 
Please check back in mid-September for more entry information and details! 

Please take note of the following details:

Starting Point: The parade kicks off at the intersection of E. Adams Avenue and N. 8th Street.

Route: The procession moves westward along Adams Avenue, passing in front of City Hall, creating a magical scene for all spectators.

Endpoint: Continuing on Adams Avenue, the parade route extends all the way to N. 23rd Street. At this point, the parade takes a northward turn, concluding its joyful journey at Temple High School.

Total Distance: The parade covers a delightful 1.4-mile route, weaving through the heart of Temple.

 

Please check back in November for the 2026 parade map! 

The City of Temple takes public safety seriously. Temple Police Department and Temple Fire and Rescue will be on-site, and safety measures will be in place during the event.

Here are a few other safety tips for parade attendees:
 

• If you have children with you, take a group selfie before heading out. Then, if anyone gets separated, you will have an up-to-date photo of the missing person and what they are wearing.
• Have a meeting place, and make sure everyone knows where to meet in case anyone gets lost. Do not rely on mobile devices since service is not always guaranteed in large crowds. Additionally, phones die.
• Instruct your children to go to a police officer if they become lost.
• Travel in groups to and from parking spots, and be aware of your surroundings.
• Leave nothing of value in plain sight in your car.
• Carry valuables (I.D., keys, cash, etc.) in your front pocket.
• Stay away from and off of the street.
• Place chairs and other items away from the corner of any sidewalks.
• See something, say something. Like any public event, pay attention to your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the police.
• Dress for the weather. Bring the right kind of clothes to protect you and your family from the elements.

*City of Temple Police Department will NOT be issuing Kiddo Cards at this event. City of Temple Fire Department does NOT issue Kiddo Cards. If anyone approaches you requesting your and/or your child's personal information, please notify the nearest uniformed City of Temple Police Officer.

4:00 pm – 6th and 8th Streets closed for parade entries

5:30 pm – Arrive early to get a great seat in the bleachers in front of City Hall, visit local shops for early Christmas shopping, or enjoy a leisurely meal at one of our Downtown restaurants.

5:45 pm– No traffic allowed down Adams Avenue

6:30 pm – Parade begins, featuring over 100 illuminated entries. Entries feature community groups and supporters from around Temple.
Local personalities from around Central Texas on our announcer stands!

The parade takes approximately 90 minutes to traverse the entire route.

7:20 pm– Santa begins his trip down the parade route on a specially designed float.

Step into the enchanting world of the City of Temple's Annual Christmas Parade—a cherished family-friendly holiday extravaganza that has been spreading joy to locals and visitors alike since 1946. This time-honored tradition has woven its way into the hearts of the community, becoming a beacon of holiday cheer.

Decades of Delight: With a rich history dating back to 1946, the Annual Christmas Parade has been a steadfast source of delight for generations. It symbolizes the city's commitment to creating enduring festive memories.

First Monday in December Tradition: Mark your calendars for a timeless tradition! Held annually on the first Monday in December, the parade sets the stage for the holiday season, bringing the community together in celebration.

Dazzling Displays: Picture this—a mesmerizing procession featuring over 100 uniquely lit displays. The parade transforms the streets into a radiant spectacle, captivating the audience with its vibrant and imaginative showcases.

A Tapestry of Participants: From local business owners and community organizations to spirited student groups and individuals, the parade's entrants represent a diverse tapestry of Temple's vibrant community. Each participant contributes to the festive tapestry, making it a true reflection of the city's spirit.

As we embark on this annual celebration, join us in creating magical moments and continuing the legacy of joy that the City of Temple's Annual Christmas Parade has proudly shared for decades.

Planning your visit to the Annual Christmas Parade? Here's the lowdown on hassle-free parking:

Street-Side Parking: Visitors can conveniently park in street-side parking areas.

City Hall Parking Lot: Explore the ease of parking in the City Hall parking lot, offering proximity to the parade route.

Downtown Temple Areas: Discover additional parking options in various downtown areas, including the picturesque Santa Fe Plaza.

Santa Fe Plaza Highlights: Immerse yourself in the festive ambiance of the Santa Fe Plaza, complete with a beautifully lit tree at its heart. It's not just a parking spot; it's a great photo opportunity!

Free Parking Locations: Maximize convenience with free parking available at the City Hall lot, Santa Fe Plaza, the new Extraco Parking Plaza, and street parking not on the parade route.

Prepare for a cozy and enjoyable parade experience with these helpful tips:

Bring Lawn Chairs: Ensure a comfortable viewing spot by bringing lawn chairs for you and your family.

Bundle Up with Blankets: With cold weather in the forecast, don't forget to bring blankets to stay warm and cozy throughout the event.

Explore Local Shops: While waiting for the parade to start, take advantage of the vibrant downtown district filled with local shops. It's the perfect opportunity to explore and shop around.

This 2026 Participant Information will be updated after the pre-event safety meeting on November 17.