About This Festival

The Parade of Lights in Greenfield, Hancock County, is a festive community event featuring over 500 lights on each parade entry. Santa Claus makes a special appearance and welcomes visitors in his house, followed by a tree lighting ceremony in downtown Greenfield. The event is family-friendly and handicapped accessible.

Event Details:

  • Date: December 6, 2025 (note: past years' events were held in early December, e.g., Dec 4)
  • Location: Downtown Greenfield, Hancock County, Indiana
  • Contact: (317) 462-2141
  • Website: rileyfestival.com

Atmosphere and Surroundings:

The event takes place in the heart of downtown Greenfield during the holiday season, which is decorated to create a festive and warm community vibe. The parade lights up the streets, bringing families and local visitors together to celebrate the spirit of Christmas and the season. Nearby local shops and eateries add to the welcoming and charming small-town holiday setting.

Activities and Schedule (Approximate from previous years):

  • 5:30–5:45 PM: Festivities kick off with the parade line-up near American Legion Place.
  • 6:30 PM: The Parade of Lights begins, featuring decorated floats and vehicles each adorned with hundreds of lights.
  • Post-Parade: Santa Claus arrives and greets visitors in his house set up downtown.
  • Following Santa Visit: A large community Christmas tree lighting ceremony marks the official start of the holiday season.

Additional Information:

The Parade of Lights is part of the broader Greenfield Hometown Holiday celebrations, a cherished annual tradition founded to bring the community together in holiday cheer. The event reflects local pride and family values, emphasizing festive entertainment and creating memorable experiences for all ages.

Overall, the event is well-organized with accessibility considerations and offers an inviting, joyful atmosphere filled with lights, music, and holiday spirit. It is a highlight of Greenfield's community calendar and serves as a kickoff to the Christmas festivities in the area.