About This Festival

The Greater Lafayette Christmas Parade is Indiana's largest lighted holiday parade held downtown on Main Street in Lafayette, Tippecanoe County. It is a festive evening event typically running from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm, featuring Santa Claus, various floats, bands, clowns, fire trucks, police, and other community groups. The parade route generally covers Main Street, from about 11th Street to 2nd Street, ending near Riehle Plaza. This night-time parade is well-attended by the community and is sponsored and organized by Greater Lafayette Commerce.

The atmosphere during the parade is festive and magical with numerous lighted floats illuminating the downtown area, creating a warm holiday vibe where families and community members gather to celebrate the start of the holiday season. The event is handicap accessible and family-friendly.

Activities and Features:

  • Santa Claus riding atop a fire truck, greeted enthusiastically by children and families.
  • Over 90 vehicles and floats from local groups, businesses, and organizations decorated with holiday lights and themes.
  • Marching bands performing festive music.
  • Clowns and community safety vehicles such as police and fire trucks participate.
  • Candy and small treats often distributed to attendees.
  • Judging of floats with awards given by a panel of local judges.
  • After the parade, Santa often makes an appearance at a community gazebo for free photo opportunities with children.
  • The event runs alongside local holiday festivities downtown, where shops and restaurants also participate in the holiday cheer.

Rough Schedule and Locations:

  • 5:30 pm — Parade staging and initial festivities begin downtown on Main Street near 11th Street.
  • 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm — Parade procession proceeds northwards along Main Street, concluding near 2nd Street/Riehle Plaza.
  • Post-parade: Santa visits the Gazebo at Joe Stock Memorial Park or similar downtown locations for community photos.

History and Founding:

This parade has a long-standing tradition in Lafayette as a highlight of the holiday season, bringing together the community each December to celebrate together with a lighted nighttime parade. It continues to be coordinated by Greater Lafayette Commerce with strong local support from businesses, government, and civic groups. The event showcases local holiday spirit and provides a special evening to usher in Christmas with lights, music, and holiday entertainment.

The Greater Lafayette Christmas Parade is a cherished annual event that lights up downtown Lafayette, offering something for all ages and fostering community pride and holiday joy.