Hollywood Christmas Parade
Hollywood, CA
Floats, A-list celebrities, marching bands, and Santa take over Hollywood Boulevard the Sunday after Thanksgiving — a hometown holiday parade in the heart of the entertainment capital, free along the curbs.
Floats, A-list celebrities, marching bands, and Santa take over Hollywood Boulevard the Sunday after Thanksgiving — a hometown holiday parade in the heart of the entertainment capital, free along the curbs.
The Hollywood Christmas Parade has been Hollywood’s signature kickoff to the holiday season since 1928 — nearly a century of cinematic spectacle. The 3.5-mile U-shaped route takes over Hollywood Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard, beginning on Hollywood Boulevard at Orange Drive, heading east to Vine Street, south on Vine to Sunset, then west on Sunset back to Orange.
Marching bands, equestrian units, elaborate themed floats, celebrity grand marshals, vintage and modern cars, dance troupes, and Santa Claus himself bring the route to life.
Curbside viewing along the entire route is free. The best free vantages are along Hollywood Boulevard west of Highland Avenue, where the crowds are typically lighter. Only grandstand seating and a concert package require tickets. The parade is held every year on the Sunday evening after Thanksgiving.
Yes — curbside viewing along the entire 3.5-mile route is free. Grandstand seating and the indoor concert package require tickets, but standing or sitting along the curb costs nothing.
Every year on the Sunday evening after Thanksgiving. The exact start time is announced each fall — typically late afternoon into evening, lasting about three hours from start to finish.
A 3.5-mile U-shape: starts on Hollywood Boulevard at Orange Drive, travels east to Vine Street, south on Vine to Sunset Boulevard, then west on Sunset back to Orange Drive. Curbside spots along any section are free.
Metro is the easiest option — the Red Line stops at Hollywood/Vine and Hollywood/Highland, both directly on the parade route. Driving in is difficult because of route closures; plan to park well outside Hollywood and take Metro or rideshare in.
Yes — it’s a classic parade experience with marching bands, floats, characters, and Santa. The crowd is large, so bring strollers carefully and stick close. Curbside spots near the route start let kids see the floats in their fresh first reveal.
Southern California’s holiday lights and festive outings are pure magic — but nothing compares to Santa Claus himself stepping through your own front door. House of Kringle brings a real-bearded, professionally trained Santa to homes and gatherings across SoCal for an intimate live visit your family will treasure for years.