A Santa Cruz Holiday Tradition

The traditional holiday parade is the official kickoff for the winter holidays celebration and the annual tradition of highlighting Santa Cruz County schools, youth based organizations and local nonprofits.  Each year, the Downtown Santa Cruz Holiday Parade draws 1,200 participants and over 3,000 spectators. Rain or Shine!

Save the Date for the 2025 Holiday Parade, December 6, 2025. 

The 2024 Holiday Parade was a great success! 

SCROLL DOWN to view the 2024 parade photos from our Official Parade Photographer, Crystal Birns.

Thanks to our Platinum Sponsor: Pedro Gonzalez of Farmer's Insurance.

Thanks to our Silver Sponsors: Kianti's Pizza & Pasta Bar, Sandbar Solar, Shakespeare Santa Cruz and The Penny Ice Creamery