2026 Wilmington Chamber Christmas Parade
Saturday, November 28 2026
5:00 PM • Downtown Wilmington, IL
About the Parade
The Wilmington Chamber Christmas Parade is a long-running hometown tradition that brings our community together to celebrate the season. This year’s theme, “Stars, Stripes, and the Mother Road,” honors two historic milestones, America’s 250th birthday and Route 66’s 100th Birthday.
The parade is open to businesses, nonprofits, churches, clubs, schools, families, and other groups. All kinds of entries are welcome, including floats, vehicles, walking groups, horses, bands, and emergency vehicles.
Entry Rules & Info
No live Santa Claus or anything similar is allowed in your parade entry. The Wilmington Chamber will have the only live Santa Claus at the end of the parade. Any participants violating this rule, at the discretion of the Chamber, will be removed from the parade lineup.
Parade entries are free except for political entries, which cost $50. The political entry fee is paid via online invoice sent after your registration.
Entries must be received no later than November 19. Parade lineup information will be sent approximately 3-5 days prior to the parade.
Spectator Information
The parade route travels down Ryan Street to Water Street, ending downtown. The route is busy along Water Street and gets more crowded as you approach downtown. We encourage families to arrive early to find a good spot. Bundle up, bring a chair, and enjoy a festive evening in downtown Wilmington!
Parade Day Highlights
Shops Open Late
Small Business Saturday all day, select shops open late
Christkindl Market
4PM – 7PM in the downtown parking lot
Chamber Member of the Year
Presentation at Claire’s Corner after the parade
Santa at the Gazebo
Following Chamber Member of the Year presentation
South Island Park Lights
Lights on at 8PM Saturday night
Register for the Parade
Registration is free for businesses, nonprofits, churches, clubs, schools, families, and community groups. Political entries are $50.
Registration deadline: November 19, 2026
Register your parade entryRegistration button opens a new window
