The 81st annual ABC11 Crossroads Ford Raleigh Christmas Parade marches into downtown today. It starts at 9:30 a.m. This is the largest Christmas parade between Washington D.C. and Atlanta. You can watch live on ABC11 or from the sidewalks.
NC State basketball legend Dereck Whittenburg leads the festivities as grand marshal. The event signals the official start of the holiday season for the Triangle community. Local businesses prepare for a major boost in visitors.
Parade Route and Street Closure Details
The parade begins at the intersection of Hillsborough Street and St. Mary’s Street. It travels approximately 1.4 miles through the heart of downtown Raleigh. The route ends on Lenoir Street.
Street closures are in effect from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hillsborough Street from West Morgan to St. Mary’s is closed. St. Mary’s Street from College Place to W. Morgan is also shut down. According to ABC11, additional detours may be established for safety.
How to Watch the Festivities Live
You have multiple options to catch the parade. The live broadcast begins at 9:00 a.m. on ABC11. The broadcast continues until noon.
You can also stream the event on the ABC11 app. The ABC News channel on Hulu will carry the parade. This allows viewers at home to enjoy the entire spectacle from start to finish.
For those attending in person, downtown parking decks and street parking are available. Arriving by 7 a.m. secures the best viewing spots. The parade typically lasts between two and two and a half hours.
Grand Marshal and Local Business Impact
Dereck Whittenburg’s role as grand marshal honors his community impact. The parade itself is a long-standing tradition dating back to 1939. It is organized by the Greater Raleigh Merchants Association.
Local shops and restaurants see significant foot traffic. The Cupcake Shoppe, for instance, began baking for the event in the early morning hours. New businesses like Veloce’s use the parade for their grand opening, capitalizing on the large crowd.
The Raleigh Christmas Parade remains a cornerstone of the city’s holiday identity, blending community spirit with local commerce for a memorable seasonal kickoff.
Dropping this nugget your way
What time does the Raleigh Christmas Parade start?
The parade steps off at 9:30 a.m. Live television coverage begins earlier, at 9:00 a.m., with a pre-show on ABC11.
Where can I park for the parade?
All downtown Raleigh parking decks and street parking spaces are available. Officials recommend arriving early, by 7 a.m., for the best access and spots.
How long is the Raleigh Christmas Parade?
The parade route is 1.4 miles long. The event itself typically runs for two to two and a half hours from its start time.
Who is the grand marshal this year?
NC State basketball legend Dereck Whittenburg is serving as the 2024 grand marshal. The honor recognizes his significant contributions to the Raleigh community.
What happens if it rains?
The Raleigh Christmas Parade is held rain or shine. Attendees should dress for the weather, as the event proceeds regardless of conditions.
জুমবাংলা নিউজ সবার আগে পেতে Follow করুন জুমবাংলা গুগল নিউজ, জুমবাংলা টুইটার , জুমবাংলা ফেসবুক, জুমবাংলা টেলিগ্রাম এবং সাবস্ক্রাইব করুন জুমবাংলা ইউটিউব চ্যানেলে।
