Los Altos Festival of Lights Parade 2024 in California

Every November, the Los Altos Festival of Lights Parade brings holiday magic to downtown Los Altos, transforming the streets with lights, colors, and music. As one of the city’s most cherished holiday traditions, the parade attracts locals and visitors alike to experience a captivating evening filled with illuminated floats, festive characters, and classic holiday scenes.

Parade Highlights and Attractions

As the parade begins, spectators are greeted by a range of themed floats, each adorned with lights and holiday decor. Over the years, floats have depicted iconic holiday scenes such as Penguins on Ice, Mother Goose’s tales, and even whimsical displays inspired by Peter Pan and the Emerald City. The floats are accompanied by costumed characters and walking groups dressed as popular cartoon and fairy-tale figures, making it an enchanting experience for children. Additionally, dancers and marching bands from local schools perform festive tunes, adding to the holiday atmosphere. According to the organizers, one of the most anticipated moments is Santa’s grand arrival in his sleigh and dancing elves, marking the official start of the holiday season.

Event Schedule

The parade is set to start at around 6 pm on the Sunday following Thanksgiving, beginning at the corner of First Street and State Street. The initial floats should reach the intersection of First and Main Streets between 6:20 and 6:30 pm. By 6:45 to 7 pm, the first floats will approach the final corner at Whitney and Third Streets. The last floats are expected to conclude the event between 7:20 and 7:45 pm. Arriving early is recommended to secure a good viewing spot and enjoy the pre-parade festivities.

Ticketing and Parking Information

Admission to the Los Altos Festival of Lights Parade is free for all attendees, as the event is organized by the Los Altos Festival of Lights Association, a nonprofit group funded by donations and merchandise sales. Spectators can support the parade by purchasing light-up items and holiday-themed accessories available at the event. Limited parking options are available around downtown Los Altos, with public parking structures and street parking accessible. However, due to the event's popularity, visitors are encouraged to carpool or use alternative transportation where possible.

Location and Accessibility

The parade takes place in the heart of Los Altos, beginning at State and First Streets and weaving through the downtown area. Located in Northern Silicon Valley, Los Altos is a short drive northeast of San Jose and easily accessible from neighboring cities within Santa Clara County. The downtown area, known for its cozy, pedestrian-friendly environment, also features restaurants and shops that remain open to welcome visitors before and after the parade. Additionally, several parks and attractions are located nearby, making Los Altos a scenic destination for an extended visit.

A Community Celebration

Organized by dedicated volunteers and supported by community donations, the event reflects the festive spirit of Los Altos, where residents and businesses come together to create an unforgettable holiday kickoff. Volunteers are essential to the event’s success, filling roles that range from float staging and costume assistance to makeup application and broadcast support. Shifts begin as early as 8 am with tasks like unloading the costume trailer, while later shifts involve staging, float handling, and post-event cleanup. This collaborative effort highlights the community’s dedication to bringing holiday cheer to attendees year after year.