New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade: Holiday Cheer By The Sea

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by attending a Christmas parade? If you're looking for a fun and unique way to celebrate the holidays, look no further than the New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade. Located in the charming coastal town of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, this annual parade is a beloved tradition that brings together locals and visitors alike to enjoy a magical evening of holiday cheer by the sea.

For over 30 years, the New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade has been a staple of the town's holiday celebrations. The parade typically takes place on the first Saturday of December and features a wide range of participants, including marching bands, floats, community groups, and of course, Santa Claus himself. The parade route winds its way through the picturesque streets of downtown New Smyrna Beach, offering spectators a unique and festive holiday experience.

What to Expect at the New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade

One of the highlights of the New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade is the wide range of participants that take part. From marching bands and cheerleaders to community groups and local businesses, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The parade also features a number of festive floats, many of which are decorated with elaborate lights and decorations.

Of course, no Christmas parade would be complete without a visit from Santa Claus himself. The big man in red is always a crowd-pleaser, and kids of all ages love waving hello as he makes his way down the parade route. And with the beautiful Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop, the New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade is truly a unique and unforgettable holiday experience.

Parade Route and Schedule

The New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade typically takes place on the first Saturday of December, starting at 4 pm. The parade route runs through the streets of downtown New Smyrna Beach, beginning at the intersection of Canal Street and Washington Street. From there, the parade makes its way north on Canal Street, turning left onto Washington Street and continuing to the intersection of Washington Street and Atlantic Avenue.

Spectators can enjoy the parade from anywhere along the route, but the best viewing spots are typically found near the starting point at Canal Street and Washington Street. Be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot, as the parade can get quite crowded.

The History of the New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade

The New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade has a rich history that dates back over 30 years. The parade was first started in the 1980s by a group of local residents who wanted to bring some holiday cheer to the town. Over the years, the parade has grown in size and popularity, attracting visitors from all over the country.

Today, the New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade is one of the largest and most popular holiday events in Volusia County. The parade is organized by the New Smyrna Beach Chamber of Commerce, which works tirelessly throughout the year to bring together the community and make the parade a success.

How to Get Involved in the New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade

If you're interested in getting involved in the New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade, there are a number of ways to do so. One of the best ways is to participate in the parade itself, either by entering a float or marching with a community group. The New Smyrna Beach Chamber of Commerce also welcomes volunteers to help with the organization and execution of the parade.

Another great way to get involved is to attend one of the many holiday events that take place in New Smyrna Beach throughout the month of December. From festive holiday markets to special events at local businesses, there's always something going on in the town during the holiday season.

Things to Do in New Smyrna Beach During the Holiday Season

New Smyrna Beach is a great place to visit during the holiday season, with a wide range of things to see and do. Here are just a few ideas:

• Visit the Beach: With its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, New Smyrna Beach is the perfect place to soak up some sun and enjoy the holiday weather.
• Go Shopping: Downtown New Smyrna Beach is filled with unique boutiques and specialty shops, offering a wide range of holiday gifts and treats.
• Enjoy a Festive Meal: New Smyrna Beach is home to a number of excellent restaurants, many of which offer special holiday menus and events.
• Take a Holiday Tour: The New Smyrna Beach Museum of East Coast Surfing offers a special holiday tour of the town's historic homes and landmarks.

Accommodations in New Smyrna Beach

If you're planning to visit New Smyrna Beach during the holiday season, there are a number of excellent accommodations to choose from. Here are just a few ideas:

• Hotels: New Smyrna Beach is home to a number of excellent hotels, many of which offer special holiday packages and rates.
• Vacation Rentals: If you're looking for a more homey experience, consider renting a vacation home or condo in New Smyrna Beach.
• Bed and Breakfasts: For a truly unique and festive experience, consider staying at one of New Smyrna Beach's charming bed and breakfasts.

The Benefits of Attending the New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade

Attending the New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade offers a number of benefits, including:

• Holiday Cheer: The parade is a great way to get into the holiday spirit, with its festive floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus himself.
• Community Spirit: The parade is a wonderful way to connect with the local community and enjoy some holiday cheer with friends and family.
• Unique Experience: With its beautiful beachfront location and festive atmosphere, the New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade is a truly unique and unforgettable holiday experience.

Conclusion

The New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade is a must-see event during the holiday season. With its festive floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus himself, the parade is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy some holiday cheer by the sea. Whether you're a local or just visiting, the parade is a wonderful way to connect with the community and enjoy some holiday fun.

Join the Conversation

We'd love to hear from you! Have you attended the New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade before? What's your favorite part of the parade? Let us know in the comments below!

Share the Fun

Share this article with your friends and family to help spread the word about the New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade. And don't forget to use the hashtag #NSBChristmasParade on social media to join in on the conversation!