Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade

Holiday traditions return to Downtown Concord with the 27th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony presented by Eli Lilly on Friday, November 22 from 6-8:30 p.m., and the 96th Concord Christmas Parade presented by True Care Pharmacy on Saturday, November 23 beginning at 2:30 p.m.

These family-friendly events are free to the public and feature children’s activities, live music and dance, and fireworks.

27th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony,
Friday, November 22, 6-8:30 p.m.

Presented by Eli Lilly

Tree Lighting and Parade Photos Courtesy of Michael A. Anderson Photography

The annual tree lighting ceremony will take place in Downtown Concord, with the City's large tree returning to the Couthouse Plaza.  There will be food trucks, a kids’ zone sponsored by Uwharrie Bank, Santa and Mrs. Clause in the Courthouse Plaza sponsored by Kinetic, and fireworks to end the celebration.

Back by popular demand! Visitors will enjoy an illuminated vehicle display as they make their way from Rotary Square to Bicentennial Lot on Church Street to watch the fireworks. Again this year, visitors will be able to vote on which City department they feel had the most outstanding light display.

96th concord christmas parade
saturday, November 23 at 2:30 p.m.

Presented by True Care Pharmacy

Tree Lighting and Parade Photos Courtesy of Michael A. Anderson Photography

The annual Concord Christmas Parade, sponsored by True Care Pharmacy, is one of the oldest and continuously running Christmas parades in North Carolina!

Parade Entries, Guidelines, and Awards

Parade Entries:  Thank you to all of the community organizations, churches, schools, businesses, and all other groups who are interested in joining us for our 96th annual parade. Registration is now open online!

2024 Parade Guidelines can be found here.