Great Bend, KS
The parade will be held Saturday, November 29, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. This is the 20th year of this parade, and we are proud it has become a local tradition! Our goal is to get a wide range of participants to join us in celebrating the holiday spirit for Great Bend. From A Christmas Story, to Elf, to It’s a Wonderful Life, and yes, even Die Hard for those who consider it a holiday movie, the city wants parade participants to bring their annual holiday rewatches to life. Our parade route is down Great Bend’s Main Street from 19th to 12th and is approximately 1/2 mile long. This is part of a HUGE day of fun both before and AFTER the parade! (Join us at Jack Kilby Square after for free hot dogs, hot chocolate, the mayor tree lighting and the announcements of cookie contest winners)
Again this year judges will judge the parade BEFORE it takes place – so viewers can see the winners as they stroll the street. Awards will be given for best entry in the categories of:
- Youth Group
- Civic Group or Club
- Float the best depicts the theme
- Best Private entry
- Church Group
- Grand Marshal’s – Best in Parade
We need your participation to make this year’s parade and festival the best yet, continuing to make coming home for the holidays a real community success! After the parade we have many activities and fun happening in Jack Kilby Square- we invite you to join. Please fill out the attached entry form and waiver and return both by November 14th.
Forms can be either…
Emailed to [email protected]
Mailed to 1209 Williams St, Great Bend, KS 67530
Dropped off at City Hall between 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Monday – Friday.
Parade entry forms can also be found on the City of Great Bend website at this link or can be picked up City Hall. Entrants will receive participant instructions and additional information on or by November 24th VIA EMAIL. Should you have any questions please feel free to contact me. I look forward to receiving your entry.
Addison Crites, Public Relations Director, [email protected]
