Downtown Champaign will mark a milestone celebration on November 29, as the community gathers for the 25th Annual Parade of Lights. This year’s theme, “Silver Bells: 25 Years of Holiday Cheer,” honors a quarter-century of holiday tradition in the heart of the city.

The parade begins at 5:00 p.m., featuring more than fifty illuminated floats, marching bands, holiday characters, and Santa Claus making his way down Neil Street. Following the parade, the celebration continues at approximately 6:15 p.m. with a tree lighting ceremony at the newly established Downtown Plaza.

For the first time, the Parade of Lights coincides with the launch of WinterFest, an all-day celebration that begins at noon and runs through 7:30 p.m.. The event aligns with Small Business Saturday, encouraging residents to support more than 20 local retailers throughout downtown.

WinterFest activities include a Mistletoe Market at the Orpheum Theatre from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., visits with Santa at Big Grove Tavern from noon to 4:00 p.m., and the historic popcorn wagon operating from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.. Children can write letters to Santa between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., while families enjoy carriage rides around downtown during the same hours. Entertainment on the Plaza Stage runs from 1:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., and a Kids Wonderland featuring games and inflatables operates from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m..

The festivities mark an official start to the holiday season in Champaign-Urbana. For more information about float registration, volunteer opportunities, or sponsorship, visit the Champaign Center Partnership website at champaigncenter.com.