News Summary
Williamsburg is gearing up for its annual Christmas Parade with the theme ‘Rockin Retro Christmas.’ The event, scheduled for December 7, promises vibrant festivities. Registration opens on July 21, with fees varying for participants and nonprofits. Following a successful past event that attracted over 18,000 spectators, the parade aims to boost the local economy while inviting creative entries. Community involvement is strongly encouraged, including participation from local school bands and sponsorship opportunities for businesses.
Williamsburg will host its annual Christmas Parade on December 7, 2025, featuring the theme “Rockin Retro Christmas.” The parade will kick off at 5 p.m. and promises to be a vibrant celebration of festive cheer. Registration for participants will begin at 9 a.m. on Monday, July 21, and early registration is recommended as slots tend to fill up rapidly, as evidenced by previous years.
Participants can register online at williamsburgchamber.com/christmas-parade. The entry fee is set at $150 for participants, while nonprofit organizations can enter for $100. All entries must complete an application, submit necessary waivers, and provide insurance forms. Additionally, attendance at a mandatory safety meeting is required to ensure the safety and success of the event. All registration materials must be submitted by September 25 to be eligible to participate in the parade.
Last year’s event attracted over 18,000 spectators, significantly benefiting the Williamsburg economy. Visitor spending during the parade weekend made up 20% of the total spending within the area, with approximately 37% of this going to local businesses. Restaurants reported a striking 28% increase in spending compared to the four weeks leading up to the parade, underscoring the event’s role as a substantial economic driver for the region.
The chosen theme for this year’s parade, “Rockin Retro Christmas,” encourages participants to use their creativity to celebrate their favorite past eras. Festive, illuminated decorations are highly encouraged, providing a unique way for entrants to connect with the community and enhance the holiday spirit.
Local school marching bands, ranging from middle school to collegiate levels, will have early access to registration. Band leaders are encouraged to contact the chamber’s communications office for more details on securing their spots. In addition to participant registration, the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce is also offering sponsorship opportunities for local businesses wishing to be involved in this beloved community event.
The 2025 Christmas Parade will continue the tradition of showcasing festive floats, live performances, and the eagerly anticipated arrival of Santa Claus. Community members look forward to gathering in celebration and unity during this cherished holiday event, which marks the beginning of the festive season in Williamsburg.
With all preparations and registrations in place, Williamsburg is set to embrace the holiday spirit with an event that is not only a celebration of Christmas but also a vital contributor to the local economy.
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Additional Resources
- Daily Press: Williamsburg Already Gearing Up for a Rockin Retro Christmas Parade
- Williamsburg Families: Williamsburg Christmas Parade
- Pilot Online: Williamsburg Christmas Parade to Feature NFL Marching Band
- Google Search: Williamsburg Christmas Parade
- Southern Living: Southern Small Town Christmas
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
