Annual Holiday Tradition to Light Up Downtown Goldsboro
GOLDSBORO, N.C. — The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce has announced the return of the Goldsboro Christmas Parade, scheduled for Saturday, December 6, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. EST. The beloved annual event will take place in Downtown Goldsboro, with festivities centered around The Hub at 100 East Chestnut Street.
A Cherished Community Celebration
The parade has become the premier holiday event in Wayne County, drawing thousands of residents each year to celebrate the festive season. Families can expect beautifully decorated floats, performances from local marching bands, and appearances by school groups and community organizations—all spreading holiday cheer throughout downtown.
The highlight of the evening will be a special appearance from Santa Claus himself, bringing joy to children lining the parade route. The event captures the warmth and unity that defines the Goldsboro community during the holiday season.
Registration Deadline Approaches
Interested participants must register by November 21, 2025 to secure their spot in the parade. Late entries will be accepted between November 22 and November 28 with a $25 late fee. After November 28, no additional entries will be accepted, with no exceptions.
Entry Fees
- Non-Profit Organizations: $50
- For-Profit Businesses: $75
- Elected Officials: Free
- Emergency Services: Free
- Additional Vehicle: $25
Payments can be made by check or cash at the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce office at 308 N. William Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530. All payments must be received by November 29 to validate registration. Entry fees are non-refundable, and a $25 service charge applies to returned checks.
Important Rules and Regulations
To ensure safety and maintain the family-friendly atmosphere, parade organizers have established several key guidelines:
Safety Requirements:
- No candy or items may be thrown or handed out during the parade, per Goldsboro Police Department instructions
- Parade entrants may not stop to perform along the route
- Motorcyclists and ATV riders must wear helmets at all times, as required by North Carolina law
- All vehicles, floats, trailers, and walking groups may not exceed 40 feet in length
Performance Guidelines:
- Music must be family-friendly with no profanity
- Santa Claus appearances are reserved exclusively for the Chamber’s official Santa
- No showboating or dangerous activities will be permitted
Lineup Procedures:
- A group representative must remain with vehicles at all times during lineup
- Motors must be turned off during staging for noise control and safety
- Only parade vehicles are allowed in the staging area
Participants who violate these rules may be removed from the parade and forfeit eligibility for future events.
Getting More Information
Parade position numbers, arrival times, and staging locations will be emailed to registered participants. For questions, participants should contact Kaycee Denny at [email protected] during normal business hours.
The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce, City of Goldsboro, and Goldsboro Police Department are not responsible for damage to vehicles or floats, or for accidents occurring before, during, or after the event.
The Goldsboro Christmas Parade is hosted annually by the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce and has become a treasured tradition that brings the community together to celebrate the holiday season.
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