Guide to the Annual Holiday, Christmas and Santa Parades in Ohio

The holiday season is almost upon us. There are always many activities going on during the season. Some of the more popular festivities are holiday parades. Parades are fun for the whole family, however, children seem to particularly enjoy them because they usually mark the long-awaited arrival of Santa.

If you are looking for a holiday parade in Ohio, then look no further. Below, you will find my guide to annual holiday parades (also called Christmas parades or Santa parades) in Ohio. So gather the family, head off to a parade, and have a splendid time!

Northwest Ohio

Archbold Parade of Lights (Archbold)- This parade features vehicles of all kinds (fire trucks, cars, buses, tractors, and more) all of which are decorated with Christmas lights.

Annual Holiday Parade (Bowling Green)- This is Northwest Ohio's biggest holiday parade. It features more than ten marching bands, forty floats, and of course, Santa Clause. The parade is sponsored by the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce. This year's theme is Holiday Reflections: Past-Present.

Bryan Santa's Arrival Parade (Bryan)- This parades marks the arrival of Santa as he makes his grand entrance on a horse-drawn sleigh. After the parade, Santa greets all the children outside the courthouse and they have a chance to sit on his lap and tell them what they want for Christmas.

Olde Fashioned Christmas Festival Parade (Van Wert)- This is the second year for this parade. Features include horse-drawn carriages and lighted floats as well as Santa.

Santa Parade (St. Marys)- Santa makes his grand arrival at this parade. Following the parade, there is also a free kids show.

Winesburg Christmas Weekend and Santa Parade (Clyde)- This parade used to be celebrated before Thanksgiving but it has been moved so it doesn't conflict with the Ohio State-Michigan football game. Following the parade, children can visit Santa at his house.

Southwest Ohio

Amelia Christmas Parade (Amelia)- This parade is sure to be fun for the whole family. Children will find it particularly enjoyable because it marks the arrival of Santa to the village.