Creating Christmas Traditions Parade and Events!

The City of Great Bend is thrilled to announce the theme for the 2024 Home for the Holidays Parade: “Creating Christmas Traditions.” This theme was chosen in honor of this year's Grand Marshal, Sarah Krom, who was named last month in recognition of her many years of dedication to preserving the Christmas Parade tradition in Great Bend. The theme perfectly embodies the heart of the holiday season, celebrating the customs that make Great Bend a true "Christmas City."

The Home for the Holidays Festival always takes place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving to officially kick off the Christmas season in Great Bend. This year, the festivities will be held on November 30, 2024. One of the most beloved holiday traditions during this event is Santa’s official arrival, after which he begins his regular hours at Santa’s Around the World Building (1223 Main Street).

Throughout the day leading up to the parade, festival-goers can enjoy a variety of holiday activities, including:

The Rosewood Services Cookie Contest
The Dilly & Doc Pop-Up Market
The Window Decorating Contest, hosted by Great Bend Economic Development
The final day to “Explore Great Bend & Win $1,000”
 

The lighted parade will begin at 5:30 p.m., making its way down Main Street. After the parade, the community is invited to stick around for all the exciting after-parade festivities, including:

The Annual Lighting of the Mayor’s Tree
Free hot dogs and hot chocolate
Free ice skating
Free horse-drawn wagon & carriage rides
Trolley rides
A chance to visit Santa and tour Santas Around the World
The announcement of the Cookie Contest and Explore Great Bend Month winners
The official opening of the Trail of Lights for the season
 

We invite families, friends, and visitors to join us in celebrating the holiday season, supporting local businesses, and embracing the spirit of tradition that makes Great Bend’s holiday season so magical.

Celebrate with us at the Home for the Holidays Festival on November 30th