Best time to go to Norfolk, VA

Norfolk Christmas Parade 2024

Rejoice in the Annual Grand Illumination Parade in Norfolk

Dates: November 23, 2024

Norfolk Christmas Parade

The Grand Illumination Parade, taking place on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, is the annual celebration in downtown Norfolk and Olde Towne Portsmouth. Thousands of people fill the streets to create beautiful holiday memories. The event usually starts at 7 pm, featuring more than 70 units, like colorful floats, marching bands, motorized units, walking units, and, finally, Santa Claus himself. The procession starts at the corner of St. Paul’s Blvd. and Main Street, following a 2-mile (3-km) route through historic downtown Norfolk.

The Grand Illumination Parade attendees can arrive around 5 pm to enjoy free family-friendly entertainment on the Battleship Wisconsin at the Nauticus maritime-themed science center. The annual Annual Great Hot Cocoa War kicks off Downtown Norfolk’s Grand Illumination celebration with tons of marshmallows, hot cocoa, and plenty of shopping and dining. Visitors can try all the delicious cocoas Norfolk can offer, choose a winner, and vote to participate in the competition, which lasts for the whole week.

Parking spaces for The Grand Illumination Parade are available at downtown garages, including MacArthur Center, Dominion Tower Garage, and PNC Garage. Rates vary from $3 to $5.

In addition to the traditional illumination of downtown Norfolk, you can expect plenty of family-friendly activities, festive food, drinks, music, and art. If you have any questions, please contact the organizers. The official website is listed in the External Resources section below.

Find hotels and airbnbs near Norfolk Christmas Parade (Map)

Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin