25 Best New York City Christmas Parades and Processions

As you navigate the bustling streets of New York City during the holiday season, you'll stumble upon a multitude of festive parades and processions that capture the essence of Christmas magic. From iconic spectacles like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade to smaller, community-driven events, each celebration offers a unique twist on holiday cheer. You're likely familiar with some of the bigger names, but what about the hidden gems? Which under-the-radar parades will you discover this season?

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Thanksgiving in New York City?

It's likely the iconic Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade! This beloved holiday tradition has been a staple of NYC's Thanksgiving festivities for over 90 years.

You'll be amazed by the gigantic balloons, festive performances, and crowd-favorite floats featuring celebrity appearances.

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting

As the holiday season kicks into high gear, you'll want to make sure to catch the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting, a beloved NYC tradition that's been dazzling crowds since 1931.

This iconic event is steeped in Rockefeller traditions and Christmas tree history. Here are a few fun facts:

1. The first tree was a 20-foot balsam fir, decorated with 700 lights.
2. The tree is typically a Norway spruce, ranging from 75 to 100 feet tall.
3. The lighting ceremony features live music performances and a star-studded guest list.

Holiday Window Displays Parade

You'll stroll along Fifth Avenue, surrounded by the magic of the holiday season, as iconic department stores reveal their festive window displays, transforming the sidewalks into a winter wonderland.

You'll discover creative interpretations of classic holiday themes, from snowflakes to Santas, and experience the festive traditions that make New York City a holiday destination.

Brooklyn's Kings County Parade

As you make your way to Brooklyn's Kings County Parade, you'll want to map out the parade route highlights, which take you through some of the borough's most charming neighborhoods.

You'll also get to see the festive float lineup, featuring colorful creations from local businesses and community groups.

And be sure to keep an eye out for the Neighborhood Cheer Squad, a lively group of locals who bring extra energy to the festivities.

Parade Route Highlights

Frequently, the most magical moments of Brooklyn's Kings County Parade occur along the stretch of Flatbush Avenue, where towering buildings give way to historic brownstones and the sound of festive music fills the air.

As you walk along the route, you'll notice:

1. Historic landmarks, like the Brooklyn Academy of Music and the Central Library, which add to the parade's cultural significance.
2. Vibrant street art, which reflects the neighborhood's eclectic style and parade history.
3. Local businesses, which offer a glimpse into the community's spirit and holiday cheer.

Festive Float Lineup

During the holiday season, Brooklyn's Kings County Parade transforms into a winter wonderland with its Festive Float Lineup, featuring an array of imaginative and elaborately designed floats that dazzle spectators of all ages.

You'll see festive float designs that bring holiday parade themes to life, from snowflakes and snowmen to reindeer and Santas, each one more breathtaking than the last.

Neighborhood Cheer Squad

You're in for a treat as Brooklyn's Kings County Parade introduces its Neighborhood Cheer Squad, a lively group of performers who bring the festive spirit to life alongside the dazzling floats.

This squad embodies community involvement and neighborhood unity, featuring:

1. Local dance troupes performing choreographed routines.
2. Neighborhood schools showcasing their musical talents.
3. Community groups displaying their creative holiday costumes.

This vibrant procession is a true celebration of Brooklyn's spirit!

Queens Winter Festival Parade

Several weeks before Christmas, the Queens Winter Festival Parade kicks off the holiday season in the borough of Queens, transforming its streets into a winter wonderland.

You'll experience Queens traditions and winter festivities firsthand, featuring local performers, community engagement, and cultural celebrations that embody holiday unity.

Enjoy festive costumes, seasonal themes, and family-friendly experiences amidst neighborhood gatherings that make this parade a must-attend.

Manhattan's Columbus Avenue Parade

As you stroll along Manhattan's Columbus Avenue, you'll be enveloped in a festive holiday atmosphere that's perfect for getting you in the mood for the season.

You'll find plenty of family fun activities to enjoy, from photo ops with Santa to interactive games and crafts.

Meanwhile, local businesses add to the excitement by offering special deals and promotions, making this parade a true community celebration.

Festive Holiday Atmosphere

While strolling along Manhattan's Columbus Avenue, you're enveloped in a festive holiday atmosphere that's hard to resist, with twinkling lights and garlands of evergreen adorning the street lamps and storefronts.

The air is filled with the sweet scent of roasting chestnuts and the sound of holiday music, transporting you to a winter wonderland.

1. Seasonal traditions come alive through festive window displays and decorations.
2. You can't help but tap your feet to the lively beat of holiday tunes.
3. The smell of hot cocoa wafts from cafes, tempting you to stop and warm up.

Family Fun Activities

You step into the heart of the festive season at Manhattan's Columbus Avenue Parade, where family fun activities abound.

Engage your little ones in holiday crafts, where they can express their creativity and make unique decorations.

Gather 'round for winter storytelling sessions, where magical tales will transport you to a snowy wonderland.

Local Business Participation

Manhattan's Columbus Avenue Parade showcases the vibrant spirit of local businesses, which deck out their storefronts with dazzling holiday displays and offer exclusive discounts to parade-goers.

You'll discover:

1. Local sponsorship opportunities that empower small businesses to shine, along with community outreach initiatives that foster neighborhood connections.
2. Holiday partnership programs that pair local vendors with major brands, and business decoration contests that spark creativity.
3. Festive marketing campaigns that drive sales, charity fundraising events that give back, and holiday themed promotions that delight customers.

Staten Island's Forest Avenue Parade

Over 20 festive floats, marching bands, and cultural groups make their way down Forest Avenue every year, kicking off the holiday season in Staten Island.

You'll see street performers entertaining the crowds, and local traditions on full display.

The parade is a demonstration of community involvement, with volunteer opportunities available and a rich parade history.

Bronx's Fordham Road Parade

During the holiday season, the Bronx's Fordham Road Parade transforms into a winter wonderland, where festive decorations, twinkling lights, and cheerful music set the tone for a joyful celebration.

You'll experience the best of Bronx culture at this beloved event. Be sure to catch these highlights:

1. Fordham festivities: Enjoy local food, drinks, and shopping along the parade route.
2. Cultural performances: Watch traditional dances, music, and entertainment that showcase the Bronx's diversity.
3. Community spirit: Feel the warmth and camaraderie of the neighborhood as locals come together to celebrate the season.

Coney Island's Santa Parade

Riding the wave of holiday cheer, Coney Island's Santa Parade brings the beachside neighborhood to life with a festive fusion of fun and fantasy.

You'll spot Santa Claus waving from a festive float, surrounded by local artists, community groups, and families.

This beloved parade tradition is a staple of Coney Island's winter celebrations, creating cherished family memories.

Central Park Winter Wonderland Parade

Frequently, when winter descends upon the Big Apple, you'll find yourself enchanted by the Central Park Winter Wonderland Parade, a dazzling spectacle that transforms the iconic green space into a magical winter wonderland.

1. Stroll through Central Park and marvel at the stunning holiday decorations and festive atmosphere.
2. Enjoy family activities like ice skating, sledding, and snowy adventures.
3. Warm up with hot cocoa while taking in the seasonal performances and Christmas cheer.

Bryant Park Ice Rink Parade

You'll want to bundle up and head to Bryant Park for a festive ice skating session at the Ice Rink Parade, where you can enjoy some quality time gliding across the ice.

After working up an appetite, you'll appreciate the Holiday Market delights surrounding the rink, offering a variety of tasty treats and unique gifts.

With ice skating fun times and holiday market delights, this parade is a must-visit during the holiday season in New York City.

Ice Skating Fun Times

One of the most magical winter experiences in New York City is lacing up your skates and gliding across the ice at Bryant Park's Winter Village.

You'll feel the holiday spirit as you enjoy festive gatherings with family and friends, surrounded by twinkling lights and holiday music.

Here are three things to look forward to:

1. Free skate rentals for kids, making it a fun and accessible winter activity.
2. Outdoor ice rinks that offer a seasonal joy like no other.
3. Community bonding over hot chocolate and shared laughter.

Holiday Market Delights

As the holiday season unfolds, the Bryant Park Winter Village transforms into a winter wonderland, and its Holiday Market Delights are an integral part of the magic.

You'll discover festive treats, artisan crafts, and unique finds at the market stalls, where local vendors offer seasonal beverages and culinary delights.

It's a shopping experience like no other, perfect for finding holiday gifts amidst the winter festivities.

Greenwich Village Holiday Parade

The Greenwich Village Holiday Parade kicks off the festive season in this iconic Manhattan neighborhood, typically taking place on a crisp winter Saturday in early December.

You'll love this parade's rich history, dating back to 1971, and its strong community involvement, featuring local schools, businesses, and cultural organizations.

1. Expect colorful floats, marching bands, and of course, a special appearance by Santa Claus.
2. The parade route winds through the charming streets of Greenwich Village, adding to the festive atmosphere.
3. Be sure to arrive early to grab a good spot along the route and enjoy the pre-parade festivities.

Upper East Side Winter Parade

You're heading uptown to the Upper East Side, where the Winter Parade brings a festive touch to this affluent Manhattan neighborhood.

Get ready to immerse yourself in a Winter Wonderland of holiday traditions, community involvement, and joyful atmosphere.

Expect family gatherings, local performances, and seasonal decorations that set the tone for festive activities and neighborhood celebrations.

Lower East Side Latke Parade

As you make your way to the Lower East Side Latke Parade, you'll be greeted by a festive display of latke-themed floats that'll get you in the holiday spirit.

The twinkling holiday lights and upbeat music will surround you, creating an electric atmosphere that's hard to resist.

Amidst the merriment, you'll sense the strong community spirit that brings everyone together to celebrate this special time of year.

Latke-Themed Floats Display

How do you imagine a parade without festive floats? The Lower East Side Latke Parade's Latke-Themed Floats Display is a highlight of the event.

You'll see creative interpretations of latke history and cultural significance, from giant frying pans to menorah-shaped floats.

Check out these festive features:

1. Festive Recipes: Floats showcasing traditional latke recipes, with a twist of modern flavors and cooking techniques.
2. Community Spirit: Floats decorated by local community groups, highlighting their unique take on Hanukkah celebrations.
3. Family Traditions: Floats featuring family heirlooms and treasured possessions, symbolizing the importance of family traditions during the holiday season.

Holiday Lights and Music

Through the twinkling streets of the Lower East Side, the Latke Parade's Holiday Lights and Music spectacle illuminates the night, transporting you to a winter wonderland.

You'll be surrounded by festive decorations and dazzling light displays as you enjoy joyful performances and holiday music.

Join in on caroling events and community gatherings, embracing the festive atmosphere and holiday spirit that fills the air.

Community Spirit Shines Through

You'll feel the community spirit shine bright as you stroll through the Lower East Side Latke Parade, where neighbors and friends come together to celebrate the holiday season.

This festive event embodies community engagement, local involvement, and neighborhood unity. Here are some highlights:

1. Festive traditions: Enjoy the vibrant cultural diversity on display, from traditional latke-making to lively music and dance performances.
2. Seasonal kindness: Witness the kindness and generosity of the community as they come together to share in the joy of the season.
3. Holiday celebrations: Be a part of this unique celebration, which brings people together to create lasting memories and foster a sense of community.

Brooklyn's DUMBO Holiday Parade

Along the cobblestone streets of Brooklyn's trendy DUMBO neighborhood, the holiday season comes alive with the annual DUMBO Holiday Parade.

You'll feel the holiday spirit as you stroll through the festively decorated streets, taking in the DUMBO decorations and twinkling lights.

Expect marching bands, festive floats, and of course, a special appearance by Santa Claus.

Sunset Park's Winter Festival Parade

In Sunset Park, Brooklyn's largest park, winter magic unfolds with the annual Winter Festival Parade. You'll feel like you're part of a cherished tradition as you join in on the festivities.

1. Experience the rich Sunset Park history, where winter festival traditions have been passed down through generations.
2. Enjoy the vibrant floats, marching bands, and cultural performances that fill the streets.
3. Savor the delicious treats and drinks that warm your heart and hands.

Astoria's 31st Street Holiday Parade

The charming neighborhood of Astoria transforms into a winter wonderland with the 31st Street Holiday Parade, a beloved tradition that's been delighting locals and visitors alike for over three decades.

You'll experience Astoria's rich history and cultural diversity firsthand as local artisans, community groups, and performers come together to showcase festive traditions, neighborhood pride, and holiday spirit.

Flushing's Queens Crossing Parade

You'll find another festive celebration unfolding in Flushing, where Queens Crossing Parade takes center stage, offering a unique blend of cultural heritage and holiday cheer.

This beloved event honors Flushing traditions, showcasing the community's rich cultural significance.

Here's what you can expect:

1. Vibrant Floats: Adorned with lights, flowers, and festive decorations, these floats are a treat to behold.
2. Traditional Performances: Enjoy cultural performances, including music, dance, and martial arts, that highlight the community's diversity.
3. Holiday Delights: Savor the flavors of the season with festive food, drinks, and treats available throughout the parade route.

Jackson Heights' Holiday Parade

You'll love strolling through the vibrant streets of Jackson Heights during its Holiday Parade, where you'll be treated to a spectacle of colorful floats and lively performers.

As you take in the sights and sounds, be sure to warm up with some festive food and drinks that'll put you in the holiday spirit.

Amidst all the merriment, you'll feel the community's warmth and energy shining bright, making this parade a truly special experience.

Holiday Floats and Performers

Frequently, the highlight of Jackson Heights' Holiday Parade is the dazzling array of holiday floats and performers that make their way down the streets of Queens.

You'll be mesmerized by the intricate holiday float designs, featuring giant snowflakes, reindeer, and festive lights. Meanwhile, performers' costumes will transport you to a winter wonderland.

Some standout attractions include:

1. Sparkling Christmas trees adorned with thousands of twinkling lights.
2. Gigantic snow globes filled with dancing performers and artificial snow.
3. Festive marching bands dressed in matching holiday attire.

Festive Food and Drinks

The aroma of roasting chestnuts and sweet treats wafts through the air as you stroll along the Jackson Heights' Holiday Parade route, enticing you to indulge in the festive food and drinks on offer.

You'll discover holiday treats, seasonal beverages, and festive snacks alongside culinary delights like warm cocktails, gourmet hot chocolate, and traditional desserts.

Community Spirit Shines

As you take in the sights and scents of the festive food and drinks, you're struck by the infectious energy of the Jackson Heights' Holiday Parade, where community spirit shines bright.

This beloved event celebrates community traditions and brings people together for festive gatherings. Here are a few highlights:

1. Cultural performances: Enjoy the vibrant music, dance, and art that reflect the neighborhood's diverse heritage.
2. Holiday cheer: Be sure to catch the festive floats, marching bands, and of course, a special appearance by Santa Claus!
3. Community pride: See the local businesses, schools, and organizations come together to showcase their holiday spirit.

Elmhurst's Woodside Avenue Parade

You're in for a treat when you head to Elmhurst's Woodside Avenue Parade, a festive holiday event that's been delighting locals and visitors alike for years.

This beloved parade celebrates Elmhurst traditions and showcases the Woodside community's spirit.

Expect colorful floats, lively performances, and plenty of holiday cheer as you stroll along Woodside Avenue.

Forest Hills' Station Square Parade

Beyond the bustling streets of Queens Boulevard, Forest Hills' Station Square Parade awaits, ready to dazzle you with its unique blend of community spirit and holiday magic.

This beloved parade boasts:

1. Community Involvement: Local artists and residents come together to create seasonal decorations and festive floats.
2. Neighborhood Traditions: Expect cultural celebrations, family activities, and volunteer opportunities that make Forest Hills shine.
3. Food Vendors: Savor the flavors of the season with treats from local eateries and food vendors.

Corona's 103rd Street Parade

Head to Corona's 103rd Street Parade, where the vibrant spirit of Queens' most diverse neighborhoods comes alive during the holiday season.

You'll experience the heart of Corona's community involvement as local groups and organizations come together to celebrate.

Enjoy the festive cultural traditions, colorful costumes, and lively music that fill the streets, making this parade a true reflection of the neighborhood's diversity.

Maspeth's Grand Avenue Parade

As you make your way to Maspeth's Grand Avenue Parade, you'll follow a picturesque route lined with charming shops and eateries that add to the festive atmosphere.

You'll be treated to a dazzling display of festive floats and marchers who bring the holiday spirit to life.

With so much joy and cheer surrounding you, it's impossible not to get caught up in the magic of the season.

Parade Route Highlights

Along Grand Avenue, Maspeth's festive spirit shines bright as you make your way through the parade route.

With parade safety in mind, you'll notice designated viewing areas and plenty of volunteers ensuring a smooth experience.

The community involvement is palpable, with local businesses and residents coming together to create a joyful atmosphere.

1. Be sure to grab a spot near the judging stand for a front-row seat to the action.
2. Take a stroll along the parade route beforehand to soak up the pre-festive atmosphere.
3. Don't forget to bundle up and dress warmly – it's winter in NYC, after all!

Festive Floats and Marchers

Vibrant costumes and twinkling lights transform Maspeth's Grand Avenue into a winter wonderland as festive floats and marchers take to the streets.

You'll see participants proudly showcasing festive traditions, donning elaborate holiday costumes that sparkle and shine.

From giant inflatables to intricately designed floats, the creativity and spirit of the season come alive in this dazzling display.

Holiday Cheer Abounds

You're in for a treat as Maspeth's Grand Avenue Parade kicks off, spreading infectious holiday cheer throughout the neighborhood.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the local holiday traditions, from festive recipes to joyful performances. Here's what you can expect:

1. Santa's Arrival: Jolly Old St. Nick makes a special appearance, waving to the crowds from a festively decorated float.
2. Holiday Market: Browse the local vendors offering unique gifts, treats, and decorations to get you in the holiday spirit.
3. Live Music: Groove to the sounds of seasonal tunes performed by local musicians, guaranteed to get you singing along.

Bay Ridge's Fifth Avenue Parade

Bay Ridge's Fifth Avenue Parade transforms this Brooklyn neighborhood into a winter wonderland every December.

You'll experience the heart of community involvement as local businesses, schools, and cultural organizations come together to showcase festive activities and traditions.

With a rich parade history, this event embodies the holiday spirit, celebrating cultural diversity and neighborhood pride.

Join in on the fun with family gatherings and seasonal celebrations!

Harlem's 125th Street Holiday Parade

As you make your way uptown from Brooklyn, the festive atmosphere continues in Harlem, where the 125th Street Holiday Parade takes center stage.

This beloved event celebrates Harlem history and community involvement through cultural celebrations, festive traditions, and diverse performances.

Here are three reasons to attend:

1. Local talent shines: Enjoy performances by local artists and school groups that showcase the neighborhood's vibrant spirit.
2. Family-friendly fun: Bring the kids for a holiday celebration that's all about family gatherings and neighborhood unity.
3. Street vendors galore: Savor the flavors and browse the wares of local street vendors, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Conclusion

You've got a front-row seat to the most magical time of the year in NYC! With 25 festive parades and processions to choose from, you'll find yourself immersed in a winter wonderland. From iconic spectacles like Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade to charming local events like Brooklyn's Kings County Parade, each celebration is a unique chance to soak up the holiday cheer. So grab some hot cocoa and get ready to experience the city's infectious energy this holiday season!