What Is the Parade of Lights?

What Is the Parade of Lights?

Every winter, Holdrege lights up (literally) for one of the most anticipated events of the season: the Parade of Lights. It's more than a holiday parade. It’s a celebration of local spirit, community pride, and everything that makes small towns shine.

Whether you’ve been attending for years or this is your first time, here’s what to know about this joyful tradition. It's free to watch and free to enter your float! 

A Tradition That Brings the Community Together

The Parade of Lights has become one of the most talked about events of the holiday season in Phelps County. Local businesses, schools, organizations, and families come together to create glowing, festive floats that roll through downtown Holdrege after sunset. The streets fill with onlookers bundled in coats and scarves, sipping cocoa and waving to Santa from Jingle Mingle locations.

It's not just about the parade. This evening sets the tone for the entire winter season. Many downtown shops stay open late, restaurants run specials, and families gather to enjoy the lights, music, and community energy.

What Makes It Special?

The magic of the Parade of Lights is in the details:

• Floats decorated with thousands of twinkling lights
• The Marching band performing festive tunes
• Local businesses showcasing creativity and holiday cheer at the Jingle Mingle
• A chance to see Santa (and more) and celebrate the spirit of giving

Not sure how to get involved? You can register today and remember: a trophy will be awarded to the best float, so get creative! Every little bit adds to the magic.

Plan Your Visit

The Parade of Lights is held in downtown Holdrege starting at 7pm during the Winter Festival on December 13. You can register now for FREE by clicking here!

For full Winter Festival details, visit HoldregeChamber.com/Winterfest