Get Festive with Great Falls’ 31st Annual Parade of Lights

As if you don't have enough going on trying to find everything in the garage attic for Halloween, or just fall decorations in general, let me add one other little thing to that growing honey-do list.  Don't worry, you are already up there, it will be easy!

via GIPHY

I'm going to need you to also find everything for the Christmas season whilst you set up the entire Ichabod Crane display.  Why?  Because not only is it the spooky season, but it is also the season to get to planning your float for the Parade of Lights in November.

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Get Festive with Great Falls' 31st Annual Parade of Lights

The annual parade will be held down Central Avenue in Great Falls on November 29th, the Saturday immediately following Thanksgiving.  The parade route will run from 6th Street and Central Avenue to the Civic Center.  Staging will take place along Central Avenue at 7th and 8th Streets.  The parade will conclude with Santa Claus lighting the city Christmas Tree at the Civic Center.

READ MORE:  Some Montana State Parks Enter "Off-Season Mode"

The 31st edition of the event, hosted by the Downtown Great Falls Association (DGFA), will feature the theme of "A Groovy Little Christmas" for the 2025 holiday.  Harley Severns, Marketing and Event Coordinator for the DGFA encouraged entrants to get festive with the theme:

Get in the holiday spirit & dress up your staff, trucks, floats, trailers, etc. in your best 70s/hippie/groovy gear! Think disco balls, bell bottoms, groovy music, and a whole lotta peace & love.

Signups for the Great Falls Parade of Lights Being Taken Now

To be a part of the 31st Annual Parade of Lights, the entry fee is $35 for this year.  Those fees go toward funding the prizes and supporting the parade.  Award categories this year include:

• Best Overall Entry/2nd Place Overall/3rd Place Overall
• Best Use of Lights
• Best Musical Entry
• Best Marching Unit

Entry forms are now available for your group to pick up at the DGFA office located at 318 Central Avenue in Great Falls.  Parade registration must be in their office by November 17, 2025.