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The City of Appleton Parades Committee is now accepting applications to participate in the 54th Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. The Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade is the largest nighttime parade in the Midwest. The parade will begin at 7:00 p.m. and move east on College Avenue from State Street to Drew Street. The Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade annually draws 80,000 spectators to Downtown Appleton. Additionally, a television and online audience of more than 100,000 view the parade live and during rebroadcasts on WFRV-TV Local 5 (CBS affiliate).
All floats and walking units are encouraged to embrace and play with this year's theme: “Christmas in Toyland.” While the Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade signals the beginning of the holiday season, it’s also an opportunity for people of all ages to come together and celebrate. “This year’s theme, Christmas in Toyland, celebrates the charm, enchantment, and joy of the season,” said Corey Otis, City of Appleton Parades Committee Chairperson. “We encourage applicants to design festive decorations, imaginative floats, and spirited performances that amaze and captivate the crowds on College.”
Organizations interested in participating in the 54th Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade must complete and submit an official application by Friday, October 3, 2025. Groups may apply via the City of Appleton Parades website (appletonwi.gov/community/appleton_parades), Facebook page (facebook.com/appletonchristmasparade), U.S. Mail, or this direct link: https://tinyurl.com/XMASPARADE2025.
Follow the City of Appleton Parades page on Facebook for news and updates on this year’s event.
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