Marion’s Lighted Parade and Tree Lighting Bring Downtown Alive, Saturday, November 29, 6pm.

Annual Parade Lights Up the City

The Downtown Marion Christmas Parade returns this Thanksgiving Weekend, continuing a long-standing tradition that brings thousands of residents and visitors into the heart of Marion. Organized by Downtown Marion, Inc., this year’s event will feature more than 80 decorated vehicles, including trucks, cars, construction equipment and bicycles, according to a community announcement.

The parade will begin at 6 p.m. at Center and Baker Streets before traveling west on Center Street, turning south onto Prospect Street, and heading east on Church Street, concluding at Founders Park, where the Christmas Tree Lighting will take place.

This year’s parade theme is “Nutcracker Nights.” Entries include an array of illuminated trucks, construction vehicles, business vehicles, and cars, all designed to match the seasonal theme. The parade steps off at 6 p.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025, and will move through the downtown corridor before arriving at Founders Park in time for the tree lighting to officially begin the holiday season.

Community Participation and Spirit

Local businesses, community organizations, and schools contribute decorated floats and displays, creating a brightly lit procession through the downtown district. The parade typically draws large crowds of families, friends, and visitors who arrive early to secure viewing spots along the route. Marching bands and performance groups also take part, providing music and adding to the festive atmosphere as they make their way through the city.

The Downtown Marion Christmas Parade remains one of the community’s most visible seasonal events, serving as the unofficial start to Marion’s holiday celebrations and showcasing the participation and pride of groups throughout the region

Tree Lighting at Founders Park

Once the final float passes, attention turns to Founders Park, where Marion’s official Christmas tree is lit. The tree‑lighting ceremony is free and open to the public. Families often walk over directly from the parade route to witness the moment when the tree’s lights are switched on. The event typically includes live music and a craft tent for children. According to local organizers, the lighting of the tree symbolizes the start of the holiday season and underscores the community’s commitment to gathering together year after year to celebrate.