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Grand Illumination Parade Day Of Information

The Grand Illumination Parade is a beloved holiday tradition for many in Hampton Roads. Let us help you have the best experience!

When and Where is the parade?

Saturday, November 23 in Downtown Norfolk @ 7pm.

What time does the parade start?

The synchronized countdown and grand illumination of the skylines and parade begin at 7pm.

How long is the parade?

About an hour from the time the first unit reaches your location along the parade route.

Is the Parade Free?

The parade is free and open to the public and there are plenty of viewing spaces available along the 2 mile route.

Are Street Seats for sale?

Street Seats are not on sale for 2024. Stay tuned for Street Seat information for 2025.

Spectators are encourage to arrive extra early in Downtown Norfolk to secure their viewing spot for the festivities.

Can we bring chairs?

Yes. Please stay with your chairs. Unattended items are not allowed along the parade route and will be removed.

Is there food for sale?

Yes, there are a variety of vendors outside along the parade route. Or you can get fill up at one of our many restaurants along the parade route.

Are you still accepting applications to participate in the parade?

Applications for parade units are open until September 15. Learn more here. 

What is the parade route?

The 2-mile parade route begins at the corner of St. Paul’s Blvd and Main Street. It travels along Main Street to Granby Street, heading North. It then turns onto Freemason Street going west, turns onto Boush Street, heading south and finishes on Waterside Drive and Water Street in front of the Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel.  

What time should I arrive Downtown?

We recommend you arrive as early as possible; heavy congestion starts at 5pm. Early bird parking rates of $3 are available until 5pm at most garages. After 5pm, the parking rate is $5.

Consider Downtown Norfolk’s delectable dining options or get a jump on your holiday shopping as some great incentives to get here early!

Is there any entertainment before the parade?

Absolutely! Visit WinterFest on the Wisconsin, Miracle on Waterside, and enjoy various entertainment along the parade route starting at 5:30pm. You can also get some holiday shopping done early at Selden Market or Virginia Stage Company's Mistletoe Market.

What is the best exit to take from I-264W?

We recommend that you avoid Waterside Drive after 5pm. Instead, take City Hall Avenue Exit 10 or Brambleton Avenue Exit 11. Find additional travel information here.

Will there be porta-johns along the parade route?

Yes.

What is the best garage to park in?

There isn’t exactly a “best” garage we recommend. It all depends on where you want to sit on the parade route and what direction you are entering downtown from. Go to our website for a list of garages and locations to familiarize yourself.  

How much will parking cost?

Most city garages in Downtown Norfolk are $3 COE (collect on entry) from 5am until 5pm and $5 COE from 5pm – close. Dominion Tower Garage will maintain their regular hourly rates. PNC Parking Garage is $5 COE from 4pm – 8pm. Click here for a list of all garage locations. 

How can I see the parade if I do not attend in person?

Online & Facebook:

The Grand Illumination Parade will be on Facebook Live @DowntownNorfolk  on Saturday, November 23 at 7pm.  You will be able to see the parade’s marching bands, giant balloons, floats, and walking units.

Along with the traditional parade coverage, when you view the parade on Facebook Live you can expect to see even more than before with behind the scenes action throughout the day, interviews with parade participants, different vantage points from all along the route and all the spontaneous fun and unexpected entertainment that comes along with a Facebook Live broadcast. 

How to watch on Facebook Live:

Is the route handicap friendly?

All of the viewing areas are ADA accessible. If you have any concerns along the route, please see one of our volunteers in a bright green safety vest.

What time will the streets close and re-open?

Park Avenue and Water Street in the Harbor Park area will close at noon on November 23. A rolling closure of streets on or adjacent to the parade route will begin about 5pm. We encourage you to come Downtown early. Take advantage of early bird parking, enjoy Downtown's restaurant scene, and stake out your spot on the route.
NOTE: street closures are under the control of the Norfolk Police Department and are subject to change. Streets will reopen as soon as possible after the parade. No later than 11pm.