Families throughout the Missouri Ozarks are preparing for a season of holiday cheer as dozens of towns announce their official Christmas parades for 2026. These community events, ranging from small-town processions to larger city celebrations, provide a chance for neighbors to gather, support local businesses, and enjoy the spirit of the season together.
Parade Schedule by Date
Below is the chronological list of parades that have been confirmed. Each entry includes the parade name; readers are encouraged to check local city websites or social media for exact times, routes, and any special activities such as holiday markets, live music, or charitable drives.
- Springfield Christmas Parade
- Ozark Christmas Parade
- Lebanon Christmas Parade
- Hermitage Christmas Parade
- Eureka Springs Christmas Parade
- Republic Christmas Parade
- Washburn Christmas Parade
- Cabool Christmas Parade
- Yellville Christmas Parade
- Marshfield Christmas Parade
- Mt. Judea Christmas Parade & Chili Supper
- Bolivar Christmas Parade
- Forsyth Christmas Parade
- Cassville Christmas Parade
- Lockwood Christmas Parade
- Sparta Christmas Parade
- Waynesville Christmas Parade
- Nixa Christmas Parade
- Branson Adoration Parade
- Crane’s Christmas Parade
- Monett Christmas Parade (listed twice in the original release)
- Richland Christmas Parade
- Aurora Christmas Parade
- El Dorado Springs Christmas Parade
- Morrisville Christmas Parade
- Rogersville Christmas Parade
- Walnut Grove Christmas Parade
- Buffalo Christmas Parade
- Wheaton Christmas Parade
These parades are organized by local volunteer groups, chambers of commerce, and city officials. Many feature traditional elements such as marching bands, Santa Claus arrivals, holiday lights, and community performances. Some towns, like Mt. Judea, combine the parade with a chili supper, offering a unique local flavor to the celebration.
How to Get Involved
Residents who wish to see their hometown’s parade added to future lists should email [email protected] with the parade’s date, time, location, and any online link for additional details. Organizers are also encouraged to share information about charitable components, such as toy drives or food bank collections, which often accompany these events.
Why These Parades Matter
Community parades have long been a cornerstone of holiday tradition in the Ozarks. They provide a safe, family‑friendly environment for children to experience the joy of the season, support local businesses that sponsor floats and decorations, and reinforce the shared values of faith, family, and liberty that define the region. By gathering together in public spaces, towns demonstrate the strength of neighborly bonds and the importance of preserving local customs for future generations.
Planning Your Holiday Outings
When attending a parade, families should consider the following tips:
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially in larger cities like Springfield and Branson.
- Dress warmly and bring blankets or folding chairs for comfort.
- Check local traffic updates; many towns close streets or adjust signal timing for the procession.
- Support participating vendors and sponsors by purchasing holiday treats or merchandise.
- Respect any COVID‑19 or public‑health guidelines that may still be in effect.
With the schedule now public, Ozark residents can plan a series of festive outings that celebrate both the season and the close‑knit spirit of their communities.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
