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There’s just something magical about a small-town Christmas parade. The sound of marching bands, the sparkle of twinkling lights, and the way kids’ eyes light up when Santa waves from his float — it’s pure holiday joy.
Here in East Texas, our towns know how to celebrate the season in true hometown fashion. Each community brings its own local charm to the streets with Christmas light parades, downtown celebrations, and family-friendly festivities that make the holidays feel extra special.
Here’s your guide to the best Christmas and holiday light parades happening around the 903 this year — where community, cheer, and Christmas magic meet under the twinkling East Texas sky.
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Kemp Christmas Market & Parade
📅 Date: November 29, 2025
⏰ Time:
• Market: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Parade: 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Kemp, TX
- Rusk Annual Christmas Parade-
94rd Annual Kilgore Christmas Parade
- Jacksonville Christmas Parade -
- Rose City Christmas Parade & Drone Show-
- Longview ambucs annual christmas parade-
- Bullard Annual Christmas Parade -
- Arp Christmas Parade -
📅 Saturday, December 6
⏰ 6:00-9:00pm
📍 Arp City Park
Pictures with Santa will be from 10 am – 2 pm.
Tips for Taking the Family to a Christmas Parade
As a mom who’s bundled up more than a few times for East Texas Christmas parades, I’ve learned a thing or two about keeping everyone cozy, happy, and meltdown-free. Nighttime parades are full of magic — but they can also get cold, crowded, and a little crazy if you’re not prepared. Here are my favorite tried-and-true tips for families heading out to enjoy those twinkling lights together:
1. Layer Up and Bring Blankets
December nights in East Texas can be chilly, especially when you’re standing still waiting for floats to roll by. Dress the kids in layers, add hats and gloves, and toss a blanket in the wagon or stroller. Fleece throws are perfect for wrapping little legs when the temperature drops.
2. Pack Warm Drinks and Snacks
Fill a thermos with hot cocoa or apple cider, and bring snack-size treats to keep everyone happy while you wait. A pack of hand warmers doesn’t hurt either.
3. Bring Chairs and a Wagon if You Have One
Folding chairs or camping seats make a big difference for adults, and wagons are parade MVPs — they double as seating for kids and a place to stash all your stuff.
4. Arrive Early for Parking and a Good Spot
Parade routes fill up fast. Aim to arrive at least 45 minutes early, especially in popular towns like Tyler, Longview, or Marshall. Check local road closures and plan where to park before you go.
5. Know the Route and Restrooms
Many small towns post maps of their parade routes online. Pick a spot near a restaurant, coffee shop, or public restroom — you’ll thank yourself later.
6. Bring Glow Sticks or Light-Up Necklaces
They’re fun, festive, and help you keep track of your kids once the sun goes down.
7. Keep Expectations Simple
Little ones might get tired, hungry, or overstimulated — and that’s okay. Take in as much as you can, then head home for cocoa and bedtime stories. The goal is to make memories, not see every float.
