Submitted by Yakima Sunfair Parade Association
Grab your mittens, your cocoa, and your holiday spirit—it’s time to Light Up Yakima! The 26th Annual Yakima Holiday Lighted Parade kicks off Sunday, December 7, 2025, at 6 p.m., and we’re turning the festive fun all the way up!
Presented by the Yakima Sunfair Parade Association, with sparkling support from Yakima Federal Savings and Loan, this year’s parade promises dazzling lights, merry music, and enough cheer to make even the Grinch grin.
Parade Route
The magic begins at the Salvation Army on 6th Avenue, glides down Yakima Avenue, and finishes in front of the Capitol Theatre—just in time for the official lighting of Yakima’s holiday tree!
Santa’s Grand (and Groovy) Entrance!
We’re beyond thrilled to announce that Yakima’s very own Dancing Santa — Michael Johansing — will be our official Santa this year!
Keep your eyes peeled for this jolly dancing sensation as he grooves his way down Yakima Avenue spreading cheer (and maybe a few dance moves you didn’t know Santa had!).
If you’re lucky, you might even snag a selfie and a candy cane—but hurry, before the Grinch steals it!
After the parade, head over to the Capitol Theatre for “Selfies with Santa” and keep the magic going. Because no holiday season is complete without a little sparkle, a big smile, and the one-and-only Dancing Santa himself!
Be Part of the Magic!
Calling all businesses, schools, organizations, and community groups—it’s your time to shine!
Thanks to Yakima Federal Savings and Loan, entry is FREE! So gather your crew, deck out your float (or your car, bike, pet reindeer—you name it!), and help light up downtown Yakima.
Floats, bands, dancers, horses, classic cars—if it twinkles, jingles, or sparkles, we want YOU in the parade!
Click here to join the 2025 Lighted Parade!
Questions? Reach out to Holly Cousens at hollycousens@live.com or 509.759.4872—she’s here to help make your holiday shine!
Make Yakima Shine!
Join us downtown as we celebrate community, kindness, and the glow of the holiday season. Bring your family, your friends, and your brightest smiles—it’s going to be a night full of lights, laughter, and pure Yakima holiday magic!
See you on December 7 at 6 p.m. Let’s make this the brightest, most joyful parade yet!
