The Fairfax Girl Team 
Everyone knows living in Northern Virginia means a lot of hustle and bustle, but many may not realize that many small-town traditions still make the holiday season unforgettable. One of our favorite traditions is the Reston Holiday Parade at the Reston Town Center. It has all the hallmarks of a quintessential small-town celebration: community groups + local elected officials marching in the parade, local personalities taking part in the event, live music, and lots of programming for the kids. The event is capped off with an appearance by none other than Santa, making this celebration a beloved tradition in Northern Virginia. This year’s Parade marks the 34th anniversary of the celebration, and we’ve got all the details. Here’s everything you need to know about the Reston Holiday Parade taking place on Friday, November 27th, 2026.
About the Parade
The parade began in 1991, and for several years, Reston founder Robert E. Simon participated. Over the years, the parade has grown to include dozens of community groups from dance troupes to marching bands and scouting groups. The event has repeatedly earned a spot on USA Today‘s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards list for Best Holiday Parade, competing against major celebrations across the United States, including the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.
In 2016, Reston’s parade ranked fourth nationally, followed by fifth-place finishes in 2018 and 2022. It also earned eighth place in 2019 and sixth place in 2024. These rankings are determined through public voting from a list of nominees selected by travel experts and editors.
What to Expect at the 2026 Parade
The 34th annual celebration takes place on Friday, November 27th, with the parade kicking off at 11AM. The half-mile procession through Reston Town Center will feature more than 30 participating groups, including local community organizations, marching bands, dance performers, holiday characters, and mascots from Washington, D.C.-area sports teams.
One of the biggest attractions is the collection of oversized balloons, reminiscent of those seen floating above Manhattan during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. These larger-than-life characters will make their way through the streets alongside decorated floats and live performers.
FOX 5 DC personalities Angie Goff (a Northern Virginia native) and Marina Marraco are slated to host the festivities, which culminate with the grand arrival of Santa Claus. The event draws more than 10,000 attendees annually, with families, friends, and visitors lining the streets to watch the celebration. And while the parade itself lasts about an hour, there’s plenty more happening throughout the day.
A Day of Fun
Once Santa makes his grand entrance, the festivities are far from over. Visitors can spend the afternoon exploring Reston Town Center, where holiday entertainment and family-friendly activities will continue. The schedule includes live musical performances, character appearances, mini train rides, and opportunities to visit and take photos with Santa. Additional seasonal activities include horse-drawn carriage rides and a community sing-along.
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Those looking to add a little movement to their holiday plans can also head to the Reston Town Center Ice Rink at the Pavilion, where ice skating will be available throughout the day. And, of course, there’s the main event of the evening: the annual holiday tree lighting. At 6PM, Reston Town Center’s iconic Christmas tree in Fountain Square will be illuminated, marking the beginning of the holiday season.
How to Attend the Reston Holiday Parade + Tree Lighting
Friday, November 27th, 2026
Parade: 11AM–12PM, Tree Lighting: 6PM
Reston Town Center, 11900 Market Street, Reston
The parade is free and open to the public, making it an easy way to celebrate the holiday season with family and friends. With thousands of attendees expected, arriving early is a good idea for anyone hoping to find a spot along the parade route.
Parking at Reston Town Center is free, and the parade is also accessible via Metro. More information and event updates can be found on the Reston Town Center website.
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