Thanks for your interest in participating in the 2026 Festival of Lights Holiday Parade! This community-favorite event kicks off the holiday season in Crystal Lake. This is also the only nighttime parade in McHenry County, which adds a certain fun and festivity to it!
This year’s parade theme is Winter Wonderland. Think: Bright whites and blues, snowflakes, woodland creatures, Elsa & Olaf, polar bears, penguins, ski lodges, glowing igloos, the Abominable Snowman, Frosty the Snowman, ice skaters, snow globes, and a winter lodge.
The purpose of the Festival of Lights Parade is to create a fun, magical event to kick off the holiday season in Crystal Lake. Thank you for being part of it!

Important Info:

(1) Every unit is required to have two Parade Marshals, who march on either side of the unit in safety vests (provided), to watch for darting children or other hazards.

(2) There will be a virtual Parade Marshal meeting on Monday, November 16, at 5:30 PM. One representative (preferably a Parade Marshal) from your entry needs to be in attendance.

(3) Entries will be judged for the following categories: Best of Music, Best of Lights, Most Creative, Best of Theme (Winter Wonderland), Judge’s Choice. Awards will be announced and trophies awarded within one week of the parade.

(4) The participation fee is $100 for businesses and a $35 processing fee for non-profits. Other requirements are a COI with our organization listed as additional insured (specific info is in the acceptance letter) and proof of vehicle insurance.

Please complete and submit the application below. We will be in touch to confirm participation and offer payment options. Payment, your COI, and proof of vehicle insurance are due within two weeks after acceptance, or before the parade if accepted within two weeks of the parade. If you have any questions, feel free to email info@downtowncl.org.

2026 Festival of Lights Parade Entry

Have a float in the 2026 Festival of Lights parade!

Contact/Representative(Required)
Mailing Address (for personalized winning trophy plaque)
Your Email Address(Required)
What type of organization are you?(Required)
Consent(Required)
Vehicle Information (if applicable)
Have you had a float in the Festival of Lights Parade in the past?(Required)
Participation fee is non-refundable.(Required)
You can check out our weather cancellation policy at downtowncl.org/weather.
Please check each box to indicate you will be willing and able to provide:(Required)
Hold Harmless(Required)
Rules of Agreement(Required)
Acceptance and payment process(Required)