Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting
Twinkle Time in Downtown
The lights. The floats. The cocoa. The magic.
Hickory’s holiday season doesn’t just begin—it bursts to life with the annual Lowes Foods Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting in Downtown Hickory. Held every year on the Friday before Thanksgiving (yes, we welcome Santa to Hickory before he makes his pit stop in NYC for the Macy’s Parade 😆), this hometown favorite is where small-town charm meets big holiday spirit—and we go all out!
The evening kicks off with a touching tribute to fallen soldiers, setting the tone for a night full of heart, hope, and holiday cheer. Then the streets light up—literally—with glowing floats, local marching bands, dancers, festive characters, and more seasonal sparkle than a Hallmark movie marathon.
🎅 And just when you think it can’t get more magical—Santa rolls into Union Square to light the big tree and flip the switch on a season full of joy. You never know, there may even be snow! ❄️
Whether you're a kid at heart or have actual kids in tow, this is the official kickoff to winter coziness in Hickory. Bundle up, grab a hot cocoa (or a peppermint mocha if you’re feeling fancy), and join the crowd as our downtown transforms into a twinkling holiday wonderland.
Why You’ll Love It:
- A tree lighting moment straight out of a snow globe
- Floats, music, and magic for all ages
- Festive photo ops and memories that stick
- A jolly good time with your crew (and the Big Man himself)
🎄Don’t Miss It:
📍 Downtown Hickory – Union Square
📅 Friday before Thanksgiving, every year
🕒 Parade starts at dusk; Santa lights the tree after
✨ For this year’s parade details and schedule, head to the Hickory Downtown Development Association website.
Let’s light up the town, y’all. The holidays officially start here.