Unlock the magic of the Greater Lafayette Christmas Parade with our expert tips and tricks! Plan your perfect parade experience with insider insights, from prime viewing spots to festive must-haves. Discover the ultimate guide to making the most of this holiday spectacle event!
When to Arrive:
- If you are looking to secure a front row spot to the festivities, arriving early is essential! With almost 20,000 attendees, show up around 2:30pm or 3:00pm and leaving a chair near the curb to mark your spot is recommended. For those with children who want candy, being closer to the front allows those in the parade to reach you!
- Don't be afraid to come late! You can still find spots around 5:00pm or even after the parade has started, so don't be worried about not being able to see!
Where to Park
Parking is always a question when it comes to road closures and busy crowds! Consult the map we have below to check which roads are closed as you make your way to the parade. Here are our best suggestions when it comes to parking for a very Merry Main Street:
- Street Parking: Since the Parade runs on Main Street, you might be wondering where you can park on the street. Everything South of Main is open!
- Public Parking Garages: If you aren't planning on finding a parking space on the street, another great option is one of the parking garages in Downtown Lafayette. The Columbia Street Parking Garage, Fifth Street Parking Garage, and Public Safety Center Parking Garage are all located a short walk away from the festivities on Main Street during the parade.
If you are planning on doing some Holiday shopping or being Downtown Lafayette before the parade, make sure to move your car off of Main Street before 3pm, as they start towing cars promptly to make room for the parade floats!
Parade Essentials
Whether you are a first-time attendee or a seasoned professional, the question of what to pack for an event is always a big one. Never fear! This year, consult our packing list for parade essentials!
- Make sure to bundle up! The weather is often cold, especially if it's windy, so layers are essential. If you head out early, be sure to remember the temperature will cool down as it gets darker. Hand warmers are a great idea to keep fingers and toes toasty and warm. Blankets are another great option for little ones.
- Chairs are great for securing your spot and leaving room for those behind you to see. Adults can sit in the front with kids on the curb or in chairs with them and be in prime spots to get some candy!
- Festive Attire: Pack your holiday spirit! Your ugliest and most cheery sweater, accompanied by warm winter hats or festive headbands are a must. Bright light-up necklaces, ties, or accessories are the ideal festive additions for parades!
- Pack Snacks! It can be very busy on the sidewalks, so be sure to bring snacks and drinks.
- Don't forget to bring a bag for candy!!
Best viewing spots
- The Corner of North 6th and Main: Experience the magic of the parade like never before, in the glow of the Lafayette Theatre Marquis! Lit up with color-changing lights, this spot creates a festive ambiance that transforms the parade into a captivating masterpiece. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the parade against this stunning backdrop, where every moment is illuminated with the perfect blend of magic and excitement!
- Courthouse Steps: This underrated spot is perfect for those who struggle to see over a crowd. In the past, the parade has been 5 people deep, so if you aren't planning on being Downtown Lafayette early, the courthouse steps can provide height so you can see the parade floats.
- 11th Street: There's no place to view the parade like the very beginning! Be the first to see the floats as they make their way down Main Street.
Restaurants or shops with dedicated viewing locations / Where to find specialty treats/hot chocolate on the street
- The Cellar Wine Bistro will be open during the Christmas Parade and this business is right at the beginning of the route. Their patio will be open for viewing and they will be selling hot chocolate and hot mulled wine, as well as to-go wine because they are in the DORA area.
- McCord Candies will be open and selling hot chocolate.
Where to find bathrooms
A bank of porta-potties will be located on 5th Street in front of the parking lot next to DelMar and another group on the corner of 7th and Main (by the copy shop)
Safety Reminders
Please keep your group on the sidewalk and out of the street. If you have children, please keep them from running out in front of floats and groups to get candy. The goal is to have a fun, magical and SAFE experience!
Parade Organizers
Greater Lafayette Commerce host this spectacular holiday event! Thank you!
