Now in its 60th year, the Williamsburg Christmas Parade is one of the area’s most treasured annual traditions, welcoming as many as 18,000 guests in recent years. For the 2025 event, happening December 7, you’re invited to “rock and rewind the clock” with the event’s “Rocking Retro Christmas” theme.
A Rocking Retro Christmas
This free community celebration unofficially kicks off the holiday season with a lively blend of dazzling lights, festive floats, marching bands, and other holiday fun. This year, you’ll be taken on a journey through Christmas Past, from the fabulous 50s to the neon 90s. Expect a creative, colorful showcase of holiday nostalgia as this year’s ultra-fun floats feature everything from poodle skirts and jukeboxes to disco balls and leg warmers.
Of course, Santa Claus will be on hand to help get the holiday season under way! Dress for the occasion by donning your own fabulous holiday finery — wear festive looks from your favorite era, light-up clothing and accessories, ugly Christmas sweaters, or all of the above. It’s all about getting in the spirit.
Williamsburg Christmas Parade Event Details
Parade Date, Time, & Route: The free 2025 Williamsburg Christmas Parade will be held on Sunday, December 7 at 5 pm. The parade begins at the intersection of Brooks Street and Richmond Road, continues down Richmond and turns left onto Duke of Gloucester Street. From there, it turns right on North Henry Street, left on Francis Street and right on Nassau Street — ending in the Colonial Williamsburg Employee parking lot at around 7:00 p.m.
Parade Parking & Accessibility: Your best bet is to park in the Colonial Williamsburg area, using the free Visitor Center parking lot or a paid, city-operated garage. Designated accessible parking is available throughout the area, with a higher concentration near Merchants Square. After you park, catch the complimentary shuttle between the Visitor Center and Historic Area.
Tips for a Magical Evening: Both parking and the shuttle can be very busy, so we recommend arriving early to give yourself plenty of time to get from your car to your ideal parade vantage point. Viewing for the Williamsburg Christmas Parade is curbside and can be crowded; if you cannot stand comfortably for two hours, please consider bringing your own seating. Mobility vehicle rentals are available from Williamsburg Scooter Rentals, but their offices are closed on Sunday; if possible, arrange for a Saturday pickup or delivery to be ready for the Sunday parade.
More Holiday Magic
From lighted boat parades to Christmas markets, check out all the holiday fun happening in Williamsburg.