Lebanon, Ohio – The historic Horse‑Drawn Carriage Parade & Christmas Festival returns Dec. 5 for its 37th year, promising a day of family‑friendly holiday cheer in the heart of downtown. Organizers expect tens of thousands of visitors to line Broadway Street as more than 100 beautifully decorated carriages, drawn by a variety of breeds including mini horses, Clydesdales and Percherons, make their way through the city.
Parade details and schedule
The festivities begin at 1 p.m. with the first parade, followed by a second run at 7 p.m. Each procession lasts roughly one hour and is strictly horse‑powered—no riders on horseback and no motorized vehicles are permitted, preserving the tradition’s authentic, low‑tech charm.
Family‑focused activities
Beyond the rolling carriages, the Christmas Festival offers live musical performances, specialty shopping, and a variety of food and craft booths. Parents can enjoy a safe, walk‑able environment while children explore holiday‑themed activities. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, a VIP viewing package is available for purchase in advance, granting reserved seating and additional amenities.
Safety and logistics
To maintain crowd safety, organizers ask attendees not to set up chairs or rope off sections of the sidewalk along Broadway Street. Instead, visitors are encouraged to arrive early and claim open spots on a first‑come, first‑served basis. Several street and parking‑lot closures will be in effect on the day of the event; drivers should consult the official parade route map for detour information.
Community impact
The parade has become a cornerstone of Lebanon’s holiday season, drawing visitors from across the region and supporting local businesses. Vendors report a surge in sales during the festival, and the city’s hospitality sector anticipates a boost in hotel occupancy and restaurant traffic. The event also provides a platform for local artisans to showcase handcrafted goods, reinforcing the town’s reputation for supporting small‑scale entrepreneurship.
Looking ahead
As the 37th edition approaches, city officials and volunteers remain committed to preserving the parade’s historic character while ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience for all. The community’s enthusiasm underscores Lebanon’s dedication to maintaining traditions that celebrate family, faith and the spirit of togetherness during the holiday season.
For the full parade route, parking details and a list of participating vendors, please visit the official event page.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
