Mark your calendars and make plans to celebrate the season with us at the 28th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, presented by Eli Lilly, on Friday, November 21 and the 97th Concord Christmas Parade on Saturday, November 22. The Concord Christmas Parade is North Carolina’s longest running historic downtown parade. Parade registration and sponsorship opportunities are available – register early to join the tradition and secure your place!
28th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, Presented by Eli Lilly, Friday, November 21, 6-8:30 p.m. in Downtown Concord.
This free, family-friendly event features musical performances, a kids’ zone, a screening of Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch, food trucks, and so much more! Families can take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Santa Land, sponsored by Windstream and Uwharrie Bank, and a fireworks display will end the evening celebrations.
The uniquely Concord illuminated City vehicle display competition is also back this year. This family-favorite feature challenges City departments to design the most festive and over-the-top holiday display of lights using City vehicles ranging from garbage trucks, electric bucket trucks and dump trucks to pickup trucks and utility vehicles. At the event, visitors vote on their favorite display and the department with the most votes wins.
97th Concord Christmas Parade, Saturday, November 22, 2:30 p.m.
The Concord Christmas Parade is a time-honored tradition that brings together over 20,000 residents and visitors to enjoy the magic of the season and catch Santa on his sleigh as he makes his way to Downtown Concord.
The parade will follow its traditional route, beginning at the intersection of Church Street N and Lake Concord Road and continuing over two miles along Church Street, Buffalo Avenue, and Union Street, ending at the intersection of Union Street and Corban Avenue. The judges’ stage will be on Union Street this year across from the historic 1876 courthouse in Downtown Concord.
Sponsorship opportunities are available, and parade registration is now open online. Visit concordnc.gov/Christmas to register today!
Participating bands, schools, churches, and civic organizations are eligible to win awards. First, second, and third place awards are given out in each of the four categories and the winners are selected by a panel of judges.
More information about the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Concord Christmas Parade is available online at concordnc.gov/Christmas. The website will be updated through the day of the event with additional event-specific information so check back often and follow the City on Facebook (@concordnc) and Instagram (@concordncgov) for updates.