The holiday season in Denver officially kicks into high gear Saturday evening with the triumphant return of the 51st-annual 9NEWS Parade of Lights — a free, festive spectacle set to flood downtown with glow, music, and cheer. This year’s “parade of lights denver 2025” promises to be the biggest yet: over 40 illuminated floats, giant helium-filled character balloons, marching bands, equestrian units, cultural displays, and even a special appearance by Santa Claus and the beloved mascot penguin, Major Waddles.
What to Expect: A Night of Lights, Music, and Magic
The parade will begin at 6 p.m. on December 6, 2025, launching from 14th Avenue and Bannock Street and following a downtown route along Tremont, 17th Street, Arapahoe, 15th Street, and Glenarm Streets. Spectators can enjoy free viewing along the two-mile route. For those wanting a more comfortable vantage point, there are grandstand seats available near the historic City and County Building.
Throughout the evening, expect glittering floats and dazzling displays — from whimsical character balloons to live bands and cavalry units — all culminating in appearances by holiday favorites like Santa and Major Waddles. The event retains its reputation as the largest and most-watched holiday parade in the Rocky Mountain region. Locals and visitors from around Colorado often gather in the tens of thousands.
New This Year: Parade Village at Skyline Park
This year introduces an exciting new addition: a dedicated “Parade Village” at Skyline Park (16th & Arapahoe Streets). The village opens at 4 p.m. and stays open through the parade’s end.
Parade Village will offer a festive mix of food and activities: soft pretzels, churros, Belgian waffles, crepes, and coffees from local vendors will help parade-goers stay warm and energized. There will also be family-friendly amenities — a street-soccer pitch provided by Denver Summit Football Club, a merch station, a spot for writing letters to Santa, and chances to snap photos with beloved characters, including SpongeBob and Patrick. It’s a fun way to build excitement before the main event.
Plan Ahead: Transit & Logistics
Lights and crowds can mean transit disruptions. The Regional Transportation District (RTD) has announced temporary service modifications between 3 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. to accommodate the large crowds expected downtown. Several bus routes — including routes 0, 10, 15, 19, and others — will be detoured or suspended. The 16th Street FreeRide will also be suspended during that period.
Train riders should note that the “Holiday Train” service will pause for the parade. Light-rail and commuter lines will operate on modified schedules, with some requiring transfers. If you plan on using public transit, allow extra time and check RTD alerts in advance.
Part of a Bigger Holiday Season in Denver
The Parade of Lights isn’t happening in isolation — it’s the crown jewel of a broader slate of festive events this season across Denver. From the luminous holiday displays at the Denver Botanic Gardens (including “Blossoms of Light” and “Trail of Lights” at Chatfield Farms), to the dazzling digital spectacle of the Mile High Drone Show at the Auraria Campus, there’s something magical going on every night of the week.
At the Auraria Campus, the Denver Christkindlmarket — an authentic German-style holiday market — runs concurrently, offering handcrafted gifts, mulled beverages, and seasonal treats. The Mile High Tree installation, massive light shows, holiday shopping markets, and festive pop-ups like cozy “Camp Christmas” at local venues round out a winter-ready community calendar that invites families, couples, and friends alike to take in the best of the season.
Why This Event Matters — Locally and Culturally
Since its inception in 1975, the Parade of Lights has anchored Denver’s holiday traditions. Over the decades, it has become the city’s most anticipated winter event. In recent years, attendance has soared to hundreds of thousands — a testament to its enduring charm. The parade offers a moment of communal joy and togetherness at a time of year often filled with rush and obligation.
For many families and longtime residents, it’s a rite of passage — gathering downtown to witness the same floats and characters that have returned year after year, weaving a shared cultural memory that bridges generations. The addition of Parade Village and expanded offerings reflect how the city continues to evolve the event, welcoming newcomers while honoring tradition.
Tips for Attending
- Arrive early: With road closures and rerouted transit, getting there early ensures you avoid delays and find a good viewing spot. Parade Village opens at 4 p.m. — consider grabbing food or pre-parade treats while you wait.
- Dress warm: December evenings in Denver can be chilly. Wear layers, cozy hats, gloves, and warm footwear to stay comfortable while you stand along the route.
- Use public transit with caution: RTD services will be modified from 3–9:30 p.m. Plan your route ahead of time, and allow extra travel time. If driving, expect street closures along the parade path.
- Grab grandstand tickets if you want guaranteed seating — but free viewing along the route remains available.
An Unforgettable Night Under the Mile-High Lights
As the sun sets and the floats begin to glow, the city will pause — if only for a few hours — to revel in the timeless joy of festive spectacle, community gathering, and holiday wonder. With new features like Parade Village, and an already-legendary roster of floats, balloons, bands, and beloved holiday icons, this year’s parade promises to deliver memories that could last a lifetime.
If you’re in Denver or planning a visit — bundle up, bring your friends or family, and soak in the magic of the season.
Let me know what part of the parade you’re most excited to see — I’d love to hear what you think!