Updated November 13, 2025 – The annual West Chester Christmas Parade is back and bigger than ever for 2025. Without a shadow of doubt, it is one the best things to do in West Chester PA each and every year. This year’s Christmas parade in West Chester, PA, takes place on Friday, December 5, 2025, beginning with the beloved tree lighting at 6:30 p.m. at the “Old Courthouse” and the parade kicking off promptly at 7:00 p.m. For anyone looking for a festive evening filled with community spirit, the West Chester Christmas Parade 2025 is the place to be with over 25,000 people expected to be in attendance.
Pre-Parade Festivities & Tree Lighting
Before the main event, definitely consider attending the tree-lighting ceremony on the lawn of the historic Courthouse in downtown West Chester. In addition, consider arriving a bit early to soak in live musical performances scattered throughout town. As the night transitions from light to dark, the mood shifts from warm anticipation to full holiday magic — the perfect kickoff for the Christmas parade in West Chester, PA.
Image courtesy of the Downtown West Chester. Click here for source.
Parade Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss
Parade attendees can expect a lively procession featuring award winning local marching bands (including WCU’s Golden Rams Marching Band and Downingtown West High School Marching Band), eye-catching holiday floats, creative dance troupes, and of course, Santa himself. For 2025, the organizers have added new competitive categories, including “Best Commercial Parade Float” and “Best Nonprofit Parade Entry,” raising the bar for float creativity. Whether you’re standing with family or friends, the West Chester Christmas Parade will deliver memorable moments around every corner.
Image courtesy of the Balustrade Creative
Logistics: Street Closures, Parking & Best Spots
Getting there early is key. Major streets, including High Street, Gay Street, and Market Street, will be closed from approximately 4/4:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for safety and staging purposes. Parking garages such as Chestnut Street Garage and Bicentennial Garage provide flat-rate parking starting in the afternoon. For prime viewing of the Christmas parade, West Chester, PA, aim for spots near the Courthouse lawn or along High Street between Chestnut and Miner — they’ll fill up fast but offer excellent views and photo frames.
Image courtesy of the Hello West Chester. Click here for source.
After-Parade Festivities & Holiday Atmosphere
Even after the parade ends around 8:30-9:00 p.m., downtown West Chester remains alive with festive energy. The town’s holiday lighting program — part of the “Lights Up Holiday Weekends” series — continues through early January to encourage browsing local shops, enjoying warm churros and cocoa, and taking in the twinkling decorations. The West Chester Christmas Parade 2025 marks just the beginning of a full season of holiday celebrations in the borough.
Experience the warmth, community connection, and holiday sparkle of this year’s hometown celebration. Bring your family, plan your evening, and get ready for the most beloved holiday tradition in Chester County.
