With the feasting of Thanksgiving and the rush of Black Friday now behind us, it’s time to celebrate the merriest time of the year. Fredericksburg’s favorite holiday event is returning this weekend, and it’s sure to be as grand an event as ever.
Rally your friends, family, and kids for the annual City of Fredericksburg Christmas Parade, and read on to discover the best tips and tricks for getting the most out of the event.
The Fredericksburg Christmas Parade
This year’s Christmas Parade will take place Saturday, Dec. 2 at 5:30 p.m. in downtown Fredericksburg. The theme will be “The Magic of Christmas,” and the parade will feature everything you love about it from years past. Enjoy 85 participating groups and floats, marching bands, and an appearance from Santa on his sleigh. Best of all, this event is free. All you need to bring is a chair if you’d like to sit, comfortable shoes for walking, and something to bundle up in for the cold weather.
The viewing area for the parade is along Caroline and Princess Anne Streets, from Wolfe Street to Amelia Street. Pets are allowed, but please make sure that all dogs are leashed and crowd-friendly.
Spectator Tips
If you haven’t attended the parade before, you might not know what you’re in for. Check out the list below for tips that will guarantee a jolly evening.
Viewing Location
While the parade starts at 5:30, you’ll have an easier time if you arrive early. For the best view, you’ll want to be as near to the front as possible. This is an especially good spot for children since they can have difficulty seeing behind the taller grown-ups. If you do sit near the front, however, it’s best to bring a blanket or chair to sit on so that you don’t block the view for others behind you.
Finding Parking
When it comes time to park, you’ll also find the best spots by arriving early. Street parking is available on a first come, first served basis. Carpooling is highly encouraged due to the limited amount of spots available. If you can’t find street parking, try the city parking garage. It holds a sizeable number of cars, and you can park there for just $2 per vehicle.
Lost People & Possessions
If you become separated from a child or group member, head to the judges stand. That is the designated spot for separated persons, and it also serves as the lost and found in the event that you misplace something.
What Not To Bring
Please note that this is a strictly alcohol-free event. Failure to follow this rule will result in removal from the parade – yikes! Drones are also not permitted for crowd safety reasons.
Volvo Cars Fredericksburg
Volvo Cars Fredericksburg is proud to be a part of Huber Motor Cars, the title sponsor of this year’s Fredericksburg Christmas Parade. After enjoying the festivities and ringing in the season’s cheer, pay a visit to Volvo Cars Fredericksburg and test drive one of our newest 2018 models.
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