When winter arrives in the Buckeye State, communities light up with festive cheer through magical holiday parades.
These beloved events bring neighbors together to celebrate the season with dazzling lights, festive music, and hometown spirit. From horse-drawn carriages to storybook characters, Ohio’s holiday parades offer something special for everyone looking to make memories this holiday season.
1. Greenville Hometown Holiday Horse Parade
Twinkling lights adorn over 80 horse-drawn carriages as they clip-clop through historic downtown Greenville. The magical evening transforms the small town into a winter wonderland that captivates visitors of all ages.
Horses dressed in holiday finery prance proudly while riders wave to excited crowds lining the streets. This unique parade has become a cherished tradition that showcases the community’s rich agricultural heritage.
2. Lebanon Horse-Drawn Carriage Parade & Festival
Morning sunshine glints off polished carriages during Lebanon’s daytime parade, while evening brings a magical candlelight procession through the same charming streets. Families gather twice in one day to experience this double-feature holiday celebration. Antique carriages and costumed riders transport spectators back to a simpler time. The festival surrounding the parades offers holiday shopping, festive food, and activities that make this Warren County tradition worth the drive.
3. Akron Welcome Santa Holiday Parade
Brass bands fill the air with holiday classics as colorful floats wind through downtown Akron streets. Children’s eyes widen at the sight of their favorite characters come to life, marching alongside local dance troupes and community groups.
The grand finale brings the star of the show, Santa himself, officially kicking off Akron’s WinterBlast season. After the parade, families enjoy ice skating, hot chocolate, and the ceremonial lighting of the city’s magnificent Christmas tree.
4. Zanesville Storybook Christmas Parade
Fairy tales spring to life as storybook-themed floats cruise through Zanesville’s historic downtown district. Local businesses transform their storefronts into scenes from beloved children’s classics, creating a magical backdrop for the procession.
High school bands provide a cheerful soundtrack while community groups showcase their creativity with handcrafted displays. The parade serves as the perfect opening chapter to the city’s month-long “Storybook Christmas” celebration featuring special events and activities throughout December.
5. Conneaut Christmas Parade
Lake Erie’s winter winds carry the sounds of jingle bells through Conneaut as this close-knit community gathers for their annual holiday tradition. Fire trucks adorned with colorful lights lead the way for local clubs, businesses, and school groups showcasing their holiday spirit.
The hometown parade culminates at the town square where hundreds gather for the magical tree lighting ceremony. Afterward, families enjoy cookies with Santa, horse-drawn wagon rides, and holiday crafts that make this small-town celebration feel wonderfully nostalgic.
6. Salem Christmas Parade & Light Up The Night
Thousands of twinkling lights pierce the darkness as Salem’s evening parade illuminates the historic downtown district. Local businesses compete for the best float honors, creating dazzling moving displays that light up children’s faces with wonder.
Musical performances add a festive soundtrack to the procession of light-adorned vehicles, walking groups, and creative displays. The grand finale brings everyone to the town green where the community counts down together for the breathtaking moment when the giant Christmas tree bursts into brilliant illumination.
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