The 2026 Murfreesboro Christmas Parade is set for 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, and this year's theme is "A Country Christmas." The Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation Department announced on Oct. 5 that it is now accepting parade entries.
The city's announcement lists an entry deadline of Friday, Dec. 4. The city's online registration page, which the announcement links to for rules and sign-ups, shows Dec. 7 deadlines on its entry forms. Groups planning to enter should aim for the earlier Dec. 4 date to be safe.
When and where is the 2026 Murfreesboro Christmas Parade?
The parade begins at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 13, 2026. The registration page lists the event from 2 to 4 p.m. Central Time and notes that the parade is always held on the second Sunday of December.
The route starts at the intersection of Middle Tennessee Boulevard and Main Street, near MTSU, and travels down Main Street toward downtown. It ends on Walnut Street, one block past the Public Square.
Where should spectators park and watch?
The city's event page recommends two downtown parking garages for spectators:
- Judicial Center parking garage, 223 N. Maple St.
- Civic Plaza parking garage, 111 W. Vine St.
Spectators can line Main Street from Middle Tennessee Boulevard to Maple Street. The city asks viewers to stay on sidewalks and keep a close eye on children.
What is the 2026 parade theme?
The theme is "A Country Christmas." The city's entry rules say every entry must be significantly decorated for Christmas. Businesses may use their logos on signs, but the city says the focus of each entry should be on a Christmas theme.
How can groups enter the parade?
Registration is online through the city's event page. There are five entry types:
- Float entry: One vehicle pulling one float. The truck and trailer together cannot be longer than 45 feet, and the category is only for vehicles pulling a float.
- Walking group entry: For groups walking without a float. Groups with at least five walkers may bring one decorated vehicle.
- Antique car entry: One vehicle that is at least 45 years old.
- Dancing/street performance entry: One vehicle, with or without a float. A vehicle that is not pulling a float must be decorated.
- Horse entry: One horse per registration.
Float, walking group and dancing entries are reviewed, and applicants are told within three business days whether they were approved. Antique car and horse entries are approved automatically. The city says cards are charged on approval or submission and that no refunds are issued. The registration page did not list entry fees in its public descriptions.
Each entry must be registered separately, and extra vehicles are not allowed on a single entry. The city does not allow dump trucks, race cars, tow trucks, motorcycles, minibikes, go-carts or off-highway vehicles, including registered OHVs.
What awards are given?
The city lists awards in these categories:
- Best Business Float
- Best Church/School Float
- Best Scout/Civic/Social Float
- Best in Show (Float)
- Best Antique Car
- Best Dancing/Street Performance
- Best Marching Band
There is no award for walking groups.
More Christmas in Murfreesboro
The city calls the parade one of its most heartwarming traditions. OnlyInMurfreesboro's Murfreesboro Christmas Parade guide covers the event year-round, and the season continues with Christmas on the Square and the best Christmas lights in Murfreesboro. Families planning a full holiday calendar can also check things to do in Murfreesboro this weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2026 Murfreesboro Christmas Parade?
The parade is Sunday, Dec. 13, 2026, at 2 p.m. The city's registration page lists it from 2 to 4 p.m.
What is the 2026 Murfreesboro Christmas Parade theme?
The 2026 theme is "A Country Christmas."
What is the parade route?
The parade starts at Middle Tennessee Boulevard and Main Street and ends on Walnut Street, one block past the Public Square.
When is the deadline to enter the Murfreesboro Christmas Parade?
The city's announcement lists Friday, Dec. 4. The online entry forms show Dec. 7, so entrants should plan around the earlier date.
Where can I park for the Christmas Parade?
The city recommends the Judicial Center parking garage at 223 N. Maple St. and the Civic Plaza parking garage at 111 W. Vine St.
Who organizes the Murfreesboro Christmas Parade?
The Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation Department organizes the parade for the City of Murfreesboro.
Sources: City of Murfreesboro news flash: Christmas Parade entries now being accepted, City of Murfreesboro Christmas Parade page, 2026 Murfreesboro Christmas Parade registration page (City of Murfreesboro).
*Illustration: AI-generated image; not the actual Murfreesboro Christmas Parade.*