The holidays officially kick off in Billings on the Friday after Thanksgiving. That's when downtown fills with families, hot drinks, and more twinkling lights than you can count.
This year marks the 41st Annual Holiday Parade, and the theme is "Christmas Under the Big Sky." It sounds like the perfect fit for Montana to us.
Here's everything you need to know before you go, from start time and route to Santa photos and ways to stay warm.
What Is the Billings Holiday Parade?
The Holiday Parade is a long-time Billings tradition. For more than 40 years, our community has gathered downtown to celebrate the start of the season together.
The timing is no accident. On the Friday after Thanksgiving, lots of families are in town for the weekend. They've eaten the turkey, they're ready to shop, and they want something fun to do. The parade fits right in.
You'll see more than 60 holiday floats rolling down the street. Each one is decorated to match the theme, so expect lots of lights, color, and creative Montana-style spirit.
And of course, Santa rides at the very end. He's the grand finale, and kids of all ages love waiting for his float to roll by.
When and Where to Watch
Here are the key details:
Date: Friday, November 27 Time: 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm Where: Downtown Billings
The parade kicks off right at 6:30 pm, so plan to be in your spot a little early. Popular viewing areas can fill up fast, especially with a big crowd.
Now let's talk about the route. It changed in 2021, and it stays the same this year. The parade does not cross N. 27th Street, which is good to know if you're planning where to park or stand.
Here's how it flows:
The parade starts at 2nd Ave. N. and N. 32nd St., near Granite Tower. It heads east on 2nd Ave. N., toward Skypoint. It turns north (left) on N. Broadway. One block later, it turns west (left) onto 3rd Ave. N. It ends at N. 32nd St.
In short, the parade makes a little loop. That means you can pick a spot along 2nd Ave. N. or 3rd Ave. N. and still catch everything.
If you like to see the map for yourself, you can view the route here. For the latest updates, check the official event page before you head out.
One more note: the floats line up, or "stage," on the streets just west of the starting point, between Division and N. 32nd St. That area is for parade participants, so spectators should steer clear of it.
Make a Night of It: Santa Photos and More
Why show up right at 6:30 when you can turn the evening into an event?
Before the parade, Valley hosts Pre-Parade Photos with Santa from 4:30 to 6:00 pm. It's a sweet way to grab a holiday picture with Santa and get the kids excited for the big show. You can find the details here.
Here's a simple plan for the evening:
Start with photos with Santa between 4:30 and 6:00 pm. Find your viewing spot downtown. Settle in before the 6:30 pm start. Cheer on the floats and wave at Santa at the end.
And since the Friday after Thanksgiving is a big shopping day, you might also want to check out the local shops downtown before or after. It's a great way to support small businesses during the busiest season of the year.
Tips for a Warm, Easy Parade Night
Billings in late November can be chilly, and the parade runs a full hour and a half. A little prep goes a long way. Here are some simple tips.
Dress in layers. Wear a warm coat, hat, gloves, and thick socks. If you get too warm, you can always take a layer off.
Bring a blanket. Sitting on a blanket or folding chair keeps you comfortable while you wait. A blanket over your lap works wonders, too.
Arrive early. Showing up 30 to 45 minutes ahead helps you find a good spot and gives you time to park without rushing.
Bring a warm drink. A thermos of coffee or hot chocolate keeps your hands warm and your spirits high. Pro tip: fill it up with something fresh before you go.
Keep little ones close. Crowds can get busy. Pick a meeting spot in case anyone gets separated, and keep an eye on the kids as the floats go by.
Plan your parking. Downtown gets busy on parade night, so give yourself extra time. Remember that the parade doesn't cross N. 27th St., so plan your walking path with that in mind.
Bring a bag for treats. Parade-goers often enjoy snacks, so a small bag for gloves, tissues, and a few treats can save the day.
Can't Make It? Watch From Home
Not everyone can brave the cold, and that's okay. The parade is broadcast live on Community 7 Television, so you can watch all 60-plus floats from your couch.
That's a great option if you have a family member who can't be outside for long, or if you just want to stay cozy with a blanket and a hot drink.
If you're staying in, this is the perfect night to brew something special. A rich, warm cup of coffee is just right for watching the lights go by.
A quick note from us at Rock Creek Coffee Roasters: we'll be closed during the parade so our team can enjoy the festivities, too. Stop in earlier in the day to grab a bag of fresh-roasted beans for your thermos or your couch. You can also order any time at rockcreekcoffee.com.
However you celebrate, we hope this parade is the start of a wonderful holiday season for you and your family. Bundle up, bring your favorite people, and enjoy a little Christmas under the Big Sky.
See you downtown!