Akron Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting Celebration

Get ready for the holiday parade and lighting celebration! The parade will begin at 6 pm and will march down Main St. from Exchange to Bowery.

Each year, on the Friday evening after Thanksgiving, Recreation & Parks hosts the holiday lights parade, ushering the holiday season into Akron. The parade is an illuminated night parade featuring community groups, arts and cultural organizations, drum lines, and businesses with illuminated floats, vehicles and costumes. The Lock 3 lighting celebration takes place immediately following the parade. Map of Parade Route and Parking

If you are interested in participating in the 2026 parade, click here for the application.