Murfreesboro Christmas Parade
The 2026 Murfreesboro Christmas Parade is Sunday, Dec. 13, at 2 PM on East Main Street, with the theme “A Country Christmas.” Route, viewing spots and parking below.
By the Only in Murfreesboro local team · Last updated:
When is the Murfreesboro Christmas Parade in 2026?
The 2026 Murfreesboro Christmas Parade is Sunday, Dec. 13, at 2 PM. Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation runs the parade, which the city says is always held on the second Sunday of December. It starts at the intersection of Middle Tennessee Boulevard and Main Street near MTSU, travels East Main Street and ends on Walnut Street, one block past the Public Square. This year's theme is “A Country Christmas.” The parade is free to watch.
See the parade event listing, the 2026 Christmas Parade announcement for entry details, and the Murfreesboro Christmas events guide for the rest of the season.
What is in the Murfreesboro Christmas Parade?
Floats, bands and dancers march down Main Street. The city's 2026 entry categories are floats, walking groups, antique cars, dancing and street performances, and horses, and entries compete for awards including Best Business Float, Best Church/School Float, Best in Show, Best Antique Car, Best Dancing/Street Performance and Best Marching Band. Float decorations must be significantly Christmas-themed.
Groups that want to take part register through Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation; the city's parade page links to the 2026 registration and rules.
Where to watch and park
Viewing Spots
The city says spectators can line Main Street from Middle Tennessee Boulevard to Maple Street. Stay on the sidewalks and keep children close to you.
Parking
The city points parade-goers to the Judicial Center garage at 223 N Maple St and the Civic Plaza garage at 111 W Vine St.
Dress Warmly
The parade is outdoors in December, so dress in warm layers, and bring gloves and hats for standing along the route.
Make a Day of It
Pair the parade with lunch or shopping downtown, or an evening at A Charming Christmas at Cannonsburgh Village or the Christmas lights.
More Holiday Events in Murfreesboro
The tree lighting on the Public Square is Friday, Dec. 4, 2026. Nearby parades include the Smyrna Christmas Parade on Sunday, Dec. 6, at 2 PM and La Vergne's Spirit of Christmas Parade on Saturday, Dec. 5. For the full season, see Christmas events in Murfreesboro.
Sources: City of Murfreesboro: Christmas Parade entries; City of Murfreesboro: Christmas Parade page; City of Murfreesboro: 2026 parade registration and rules; Main Street Murfreesboro: tree lighting; Town of Smyrna; City of La Vergne.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Murfreesboro Christmas Parade
When is the Murfreesboro Christmas Parade in 2026?
The 2026 Murfreesboro Christmas Parade is Sunday, Dec. 13, at 2 PM. The City of Murfreesboro holds the parade on the second Sunday of December, and the 2026 theme is "A Country Christmas."
What is the route of the Murfreesboro Christmas Parade?
The parade begins at the intersection of Middle Tennessee Boulevard and Main Street near MTSU, travels East Main Street and ends on Walnut Street, one block past the Public Square.
Is the Murfreesboro Christmas Parade free to attend?
Yes. Spectators watch for free from the sidewalks along Main Street. Groups pay an entry fee to be in the parade.
Where are the best spots to watch the Murfreesboro Christmas Parade?
The city says spectators can line Main Street from Middle Tennessee Boulevard to Maple Street. Stay on the sidewalks and keep a close eye on children.
Where should I park for the Murfreesboro Christmas Parade?
The city points parade-goers to the Judicial Center garage at 223 N Maple St and the Civic Plaza garage at 111 W Vine St.
How do I enter a float in the Murfreesboro Christmas Parade?
Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation takes 2026 entries for floats, walking groups, antique cars, dancing and street performances, and horses through the registration link on the city's Christmas Parade page. Float, walking group and dance entries are charged once approved, and the city does not issue refunds.