Charlotte’s Thanksgiving Eve Parade: A Grand Holiday Kickoff
Get ready, Charlotte! The much-anticipated 79th annual Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade is set to illuminate Uptown this Wednesday, marking the official kickoff to the holiday season. This beloved local tradition promises a spectacular evening of floats, performers, and community spirit, creating unforgettable memories for families and visitors alike.
A Cherished Charlotte Tradition
For nearly eight decades, the Thanksgiving Eve Parade has been a cornerstone of Charlotte’s holiday celebrations, drawing tens of thousands to its vibrant route. It serves as a fantastic opportunity for locals to gather, celebrate, and immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere before Thanksgiving Day itself. This annual event not only showcases local talent and community involvement but also ignites the holiday spirit across the Queen City, setting a joyous tone for the weeks ahead.
Parade Spectacle: What to Expect
The Route & Schedule
The magic begins promptly at 5:30 p.m. this Wednesday, November 26th, 2025. Spectators will line Tryon Street, stretching from Ninth Street down to Good Samaritan Way, eagerly awaiting the procession. For those who prefer to watch from home, a live broadcast will be available on WCCB from 6 to 8 p.m., ensuring no one misses out on the holiday excitement. The parade is scheduled to conclude by 8 p.m., leaving ample time for further downtown exploration.
A Feast for the Senses
This year’s parade promises an impressive display featuring over 85 units, designed to captivate audiences of all ages. You’ll be treated to the sounds of 16 marching bands, the awe-inspiring sight of 8 giant cold-air balloons floating through the cityscape, and 12 beautifully crafted floats. Adding to the diversity and energy, 46 specialty groups, including five dynamic dance teams, will perform along the route. Don’t miss the unique “Segwalloons,” oversized balloon characters gracefully gliding on concealed Segways, adding a whimsical touch to the proceedings.
Featured Artists
Beyond the moving spectacle, the parade will also feature live musical performances at Legacy Union and Ally Charlotte Center. This year’s lineup includes talented local, regional, and national artists such as Dani Kerr, Lisa Trinity, Rob Cole, Josh King, Jack Burns, and Maggie Baugh. These performances, staged in the 600 block of South Tryon Street, will add an extra layer of entertainment, creating a vibrant concert-like atmosphere during the event.
Honoring Community: Co-Grand Marshals
Leading this year’s parade as co-grand marshals are two individuals deeply rooted in the community. Shana Templin, Novant Health’s Arts in Health facilitator and a cancer survivor, embodies resilience and the healing power of art. She is joined by Morganne van Voorhis, an artist, educator, and mother who directs the Fine Arts Program at South Piedmont Community College. Their selection highlights the parade’s commitment to celebrating community leaders and their contributions to Charlotte’s cultural and health landscape.
Beyond Tryon Street: Post-Parade Festivities
The fun doesn’t have to end when the last float passes! With the parade concluding by 8 p.m., Uptown Charlotte offers a plethora of options to continue your festive evening. Explore the city’s diverse range of restaurants and museums, perfect for a family dinner or a cultural outing. A major highlight is Truist Field’s Light the Knights Festival, an enchanting experience featuring ice skating, snow tubing, holiday shopping, delightful treats, and tens of thousands of twinkling lights. It’s an ideal way to extend the holiday cheer well into the night.
Parade at a Glance
| Element | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Parade Units | 85+ |
| Marching Bands | 16 |
| Giant Cold-Air Balloons | 8 |
| Floats | 12 |
| Specialty Groups | 46 |
| Dance Teams | 5 |
| Segwalloons | 4 |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade free to attend?
Yes, the parade is a free event open to all spectators along the route. - What time does the parade start and end?
The parade officially begins at 5:30 p.m. and is expected to conclude by 8 p.m. - Can I watch the parade on TV?
Yes, WCCB will broadcast the parade live from 6 to 8 p.m. - Who are this year’s Grand Marshals?
The co-grand marshals are Shana Templin, Novant Health’s Arts in Health facilitator, and Morganne van Voorhis, an artist and educator at South Piedmont Community College. - What activities are available after the parade in Uptown Charlotte?
After the parade, you can enjoy uptown restaurants and museums, or visit Truist Field’s Light the Knights Festival for ice skating, snow tubing, shopping, and holiday lights.
The Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade is more than just an event; it’s a cherished annual tradition that brings the Charlotte community together to kick off the festive season with joy and spectacle. Be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot, grab some warm drinks from vendors, and prepare for an evening of dazzling entertainment that perfectly ushers in the holidays.
Charlotte Thanksgiving Parade Kicks Off Holidays
