5 Ways To Enjoy The Portsmouth Christmas Parade

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by attending the Portsmouth Christmas Parade? This annual event is a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike, featuring a magical procession of floats, marching bands, and of course, the big man himself, Santa Claus. Whether you're a longtime resident or just visiting the area, here are five ways to enjoy the Portsmouth Christmas Parade:

First and foremost, make sure to arrive early to secure a good spot along the parade route. The parade takes place in the historic downtown area, and the best viewing spots tend to fill up quickly. Bring a chair, blanket, and some hot cocoa to keep you warm and cozy while you wait for the festivities to begin.

Getting into the Holiday Spirit

The Portsmouth Christmas Parade is a time-honored tradition that has been bringing joy to the community for generations. The event features a wide range of participants, including local businesses, schools, and community groups, all of whom come together to showcase their festive spirit. From elaborately decorated floats to lively marching bands, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

To make the most of your parade experience, consider arriving early to explore the downtown area. Many of the local shops and restaurants will be open, offering special holiday deals and treats. You can also grab a bite to eat at one of the many food vendors that will be set up along the parade route.

Highlights of the Parade

So, what can you expect to see at the Portsmouth Christmas Parade? Here are a few highlights to look out for:

• Elaborately decorated floats, featuring everything from festive lights and garlands to animatronic animals and even live performances.
• Marching bands from local schools and community groups, performing holiday classics and modern favorites.
• Special appearances by Santa Claus and his helpers, who will be handing out candy and taking photos with children of all ages.
• A wide range of community groups and organizations, showcasing their talents and promoting their causes.

Making it a Family Affair

The Portsmouth Christmas Parade is a wonderful event to attend with family and friends. There are plenty of activities and attractions to keep kids of all ages entertained, from face painting and crafts to visits with Santa and his reindeer. And, of course, no holiday parade would be complete without a special appearance by the big man himself.

To make the most of your family's parade experience, consider arriving early to grab a spot near the front of the crowd. Bring a stroller or wagon to help little ones conserve their energy, and don't forget to pack some snacks and drinks to keep everyone fueled throughout the event.

Tips for Families

Here are a few tips to help families make the most of their parade experience:

• Arrive early to grab a good spot along the parade route.
• Bring a stroller or wagon to help little ones conserve their energy.
• Pack snacks and drinks to keep everyone fueled throughout the event.
• Don't forget to bring a camera to capture special moments with Santa and his helpers.
• Consider bringing a blanket or chair to make the experience more comfortable for young children.

Supporting Local Businesses

The Portsmouth Christmas Parade is a great opportunity to support local businesses and artisans. Many of the participants and vendors will be offering special holiday deals and promotions, from discounts on festive foods and drinks to exclusive offers on holiday gifts and decorations.

To make the most of your shopping experience, consider arriving early to explore the downtown area. Many of the local shops and restaurants will be open, offering special holiday deals and treats. You can also grab a bite to eat at one of the many food vendors that will be set up along the parade route.

Local Businesses to Check Out

Here are a few local businesses to check out during the parade:

• The Portsmouth Brewery: Offering a special holiday menu and drink specials throughout the event.
• The Music Hall: Featuring a holiday market with local artisans and craftspeople.
• The Portsmouth Athenaeum: Offering special holiday exhibits and events, including a festive holiday tea.

Getting Involved in the Community

The Portsmouth Christmas Parade is a wonderful opportunity to get involved in the community and give back to those in need. Many of the participants and vendors will be collecting donations for local charities and organizations, from food banks and shelters to children's hospitals and other worthy causes.

To make a difference, consider bringing a donation to the parade. You can also volunteer with one of the many local organizations that will be participating in the event. Whatever you choose to do, you'll be helping to make a positive impact on the community and spreading holiday cheer to those who need it most.

Ways to Give Back

Here are a few ways to give back during the parade:

• Bring a donation to the parade, such as canned goods or toys for local children.
• Volunteer with one of the many local organizations that will be participating in the event.
• Consider making a financial donation to a local charity or organization.
• Spread the word about the parade and encourage others to get involved and give back.

We hope you've enjoyed this guide to the Portsmouth Christmas Parade. Whether you're a longtime resident or just visiting the area, this annual event is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit and make some special memories with family and friends. So why not mark your calendars, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and get ready to enjoy the festive fun?