The most enchanting time of the year is upon us, and Downtown Bellefontaine is gearing up for the spectacular event that will kick off the holiday season in style. Get ready to be dazzled by the twinkling lights, festive floats, and the jolly presence of Santa Claus himself at the First Fridays Bellefontaine annual Hometown Christmas Parade on Friday, December 8th. It will be a night of joy and wonder that promises to create cherished memories for you and your loved ones.

About the Hometown Christmas Parade

The magic begins at 4:00 PM on Friday, December 8th,  with pre-parade festivities, all designed to set the cheerful tone for the evening, giving attendees the chance to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit well before the main event begins.

Special note: Before the parade commences, head over to Four Acre Clothing Co. to pick up a glow stick.  

Start your adventure by stopping by the Main Street Marketplace to grab your complimentary activities passport. Until 8 PM (or while supplies last), kiddos can write a letter to Santa Claus at Richwood Bank, craft an ornament at Homegrown Yoga Downtown, decorate a cookie at Relax Nail Bar & Salon, savor hot chocolate from Sweet Aromas Coffee, create reindeer food with Aurora Wealth Advisors, snag a cookie from City Sweets & Creamery, get a temporary tattoo from Fathom Reality, and take a ride on grandpa’s train!

The streets will come alive with laughter, excitement, and the scent of delicious treats from the food trucks lining the area, including Freyhof’s Funnel Cakes, The Flying Pepper, R Smokehouse, Pig in the Pickle, Fork in the Road, Hall’s Country Kettle Corn, Where There’s Smoke, and Cloudy Days Home of The Specialty Cotton Candy. It’s safe to say that whether you’re craving a sweet or savory snack, there’s something for every palate to enjoy. This is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly December evening and add to the jolly spirit that permeates the air.

As the clock strikes 6:00 PM, the parade will depart from the fairgrounds, making its journey downtown. We recommend arriving early to secure your ideal viewing spot along the parade route. The atmosphere will be electrifying, with the anticipation of Santa’s grand entrance building as the parade progresses.

But the fun won’t end with the parade!

Following the parade, make sure to swing by The Photo Booth to get a photo with Santa himself! After all, the holiday season wouldn’t be complete without a picture with the big man in red, and Downtown Bellefontaine wants to make sure this holiday season is an unforgettable experience for everyone.

So, mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and join us for an evening filled with magic on Friday, December 8th, at 4 PM. Presented by Citizens Federal Savings and Loan Association, the Hometown Christmas Parade is a celebration of joy, wonder, and community spirit—a night guaranteed to leave you with heartwarming memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this festive extravaganza that brings the holiday spirit to life in the heart of Downtown Bellefontaine! We look forward to seeing you all there!