Downtown Development Association - Morganton Christmas Parade (MOTOWN EXPRESS)

The Morganton Downtown Development Association invites you to line the streets of downtown for the 2026 Christmas Parade on Tuesday, December 1st at 6:00pm. Floats, characters and marching bands will usher in the Christmas spirit.
The 2026 theme is MOTOWN EXPRESS — imagine Downtown Morganton transformed into a magical Christmas train, where every float, vehicle, and walking group becomes a festive passenger car, all linked together and rolling the same merry direction down the rails.
Attendees are invited to enjoy the parade as it winds through the downtown streets. The parade route will run along Green and Sterling Streets. For those who can’t make it out, the parade will be broadcast on CoMPAS X-Stream. Want to see the parade a second time? CoMPAS will air the parade throughout the season.
Come get in the Christmas spirit at the downtown Morganton Christmas Parade! Tuesday, December 1st at 6:00pm sharp.
For more information please call 828-438-5252 or email [email protected]

Want to Participate?
🎄 All Aboard the MoTown Express! 🚂
Downtown Morganton's beloved Annual Christmas Parade is back, and this year the whole town is climbing aboard something truly special. The 2026 theme is MoTown Express — imagine Downtown Morganton transformed into a magical Christmas train, where every float, vehicle, and walking group becomes a festive passenger car, all linked together and rolling the same merry direction down the rails.
From marching bands to costumed characters, decorated floats to spirited walking groups, the Downtown Morganton Christmas Parade brings the entire community together for an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer. The parade is broadcast live on CoMPAS X-Stream, giving every participant incredible visibility in front of the whole community and beyond.
Date: Tuesday, December 1, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM (Rain or Shine)
Deadline to Register: Monday, November 16, 2026
Want to stand out? Enter the Float Competition, judging begins at 4:45 PM, and decorative wreaths are awarded to winning floats, with announcements made during the parade. It's the best way to get recognized for all your hard work.
🎶 Showcase your organization to thousands of live spectators and a broadcast audience
🏆 Compete for Float Competition awards — wreaths and parade announcements for winners
📺 Get broadcast coverage on CoMPAS X-Stream as your entry passes the reviewing stand
🎠 Be part of a beloved community tradition that brings Morganton together every holiday season
Space is limited and the deadline is firm! Submit your application by November 16th to secure your spot on the MoTown Express. Register today and help make this year's parade the most magical one yet!
https://app.seemylegacy.com/community/2836/campaign/10913