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48th Annual Downtown Holiday Parade

Presented by Friday Night Lights Youth Flag Football

Friday, December 6, 2024 • 7 PM

The Annual Downtown SLO Holiday Parade has drawn thousands to downtown San Luis Obispo since 1976. Held on the first Friday in December, the parade has become a much-loved holiday tradition along the Central Coast, for locals and visitors alike. Nearly 90 decorated floats, marching bands, vehicles, dancers, and more will march in the parade. Information regarding the route, accommodations, and more will be published here as the date approaches.

Apply Here

Applications are open!

Applications will be open until November 1, 2024, or until capacity is full! Apply early, as applications are first-come, first-served.

Before you apply...

  • Please note that general liability insurance is a required element of participation and will be due with your application. Downtown SLO Holiday Parade Insurance Requirements
  • Please note that the order of application does not determine the final placement order in the parade.
  • The Downtown SLO Holiday Parade is a rain-or-shine parade! If extreme weather conditions are anticipated, the parade’s status will be communicated through our official website and social media channels. Safety is our top priority, and we thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
  • Parade applications are only available to organizations/non-profits. Applications representing age-restricted products or organizations will not be accepted. Completing an application does not guarantee a position in the parade. You will be notified of your entry’s acceptance via email. All applications are subject to approval by Downtown SLO.
  • The 2024 parade theme is Whimsical Wonderland — we encourage you to decorate and dress up according to the theme, with inspirations of enchanted forests, swirly trees, and sparkly snowscapes!
  • Fees:
    • $60 for Downtown SLO BIA Member/Nonprofit
    • $100 for general entries
  • Please note that due to ongoing construction along the parade route, semi trucks are not permitted this year.

For questions, contact Maggie Kovach, Events Manager at Maggie@DowntownSLO.com or (805) 234-9673.

Volunteer with us!

Help keep our annual Downtown SLO Holiday Parade safe and secure by volunteering to be a parade monitor. Volunteers will be stationed along the parade route ensuring that the route is kept clear at all times and parade viewers remain on the sidewalks. Sign up to volunteer »