Thank you for your interest in participating in the 2026 Festival of Lights Holiday Parade! This community-favorite event kicks off the holiday spirit in Crystal Lake. This is also the only night-time parade in Crystal Lake, which adds a certain fun and festivity to it!
The parade will start at 7 PM on Friday, November 27, 2026.
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,
You can check out our Pinterest inspiration board, here.
Trophies will be awarded in the following categories:
Best Use of Lights
Best Use of Music
Most Creative
Most Enthusiastic
Judge’s Choice
Best of Theme – “Winter Wonderland”
JUDGING NOTE: This year’s judging will take place during the line-up, and the winners will be announced as they pass by the Master of Ceremonies. Trophies will be handed out in the City Hall lot (so your group can take a photo), with the custom plates sent in the mail after the event.
MARSHAL MEETING NOTE: There will be a marshal meeting on Monday, November, 16 2026 at 7 pm (location TBD). At least one of your parade marshals should be present. Please let us know of any scheduling conflict in advance.
The goal 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!
Please complete and submit the below application. We will be in touch to confirm participation and offer payment options. Payment and documentation (COI, proof of vehicle insurance) is due within two weeks after acceptance, or prior to 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!