October 09, 2026
The Marion County Development Partnership (MCDP) is now accepting entries for the annual Parade of Lights, set for Saturday, December 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
Businesses, churches, schools, and community groups are invited to enter lighted floats, walking groups, and vehicle groups. Every float and vehicle must be decorated with lights. Judges will score floats on use of lights, creativity, originality, and special effects. Trophies will be presented right after the parade, and Santa Claus will close the parade aboard the Columbia Fire Department truck.
Entry fees are $100 for floats and walking groups and $20 per vehicle for vehicle groups of up to five vehicles. Fire trucks, law enforcement vehicles with official markings, and school bands may enter for free but must register. Entry fees support parade improvements, especially safety planning.
Applications and payment are due by Friday, November 20, 2026.
The rules and application can be downloaded here.
Completed applications may be returned in person to MCDP at 412 Courthouse Square or emailed to info@mcdp.info. Payment is accepted by cash, check payable to MCDP, or card by calling 601-736-6385.
For more information, call MCDP at 601-736-6385.
Businesses, churches, schools, and community groups are invited to enter lighted floats, walking groups, and vehicle groups. Every float and vehicle must be decorated with lights. Judges will score floats on use of lights, creativity, originality, and special effects. Trophies will be presented right after the parade, and Santa Claus will close the parade aboard the Columbia Fire Department truck.
Entry fees are $100 for floats and walking groups and $20 per vehicle for vehicle groups of up to five vehicles. Fire trucks, law enforcement vehicles with official markings, and school bands may enter for free but must register. Entry fees support parade improvements, especially safety planning.
Applications and payment are due by Friday, November 20, 2026.
The rules and application can be downloaded here.
Completed applications may be returned in person to MCDP at 412 Courthouse Square or emailed to info@mcdp.info. Payment is accepted by cash, check payable to MCDP, or card by calling 601-736-6385.
For more information, call MCDP at 601-736-6385.
Contact:
Lori Watts
lwatts@mcdp.info, 6018183987
