We have surpassed the maximum number of applications for this year's Union County Christmas Parade. The application has been removed from the website. NO MORE APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED.
We look forward to seeing you and your family attend this year's 72nd Christmas Parade. See you on Sunday, November 23rd at 2pm.
Question: When is The 2025 Union County Christmas Parade?
Answer: The Union County Christmas Parade is Sunday, November 23rd, 2025 at 2 pm.
Question: Where is the 2025 Union County Christmas Parade?
Answer: The Union County Christmas Parade is located in downtown Monroe, North Carolina. Please see Parade Route for specific route information.
Question: What year is the 2025 Union County Christmas Parade?
Answer: The Union County Christmas Parade is in it's 72nd year.
Question: Who hosts the Union County Christmas Parade?
Answer: The Union County Christmas Parade is hosted by Alliance for Children. Alliance for Children is focused on equipping young children for success by advocating and investing in efforts that strengthen their health, education, and emotional development. Our programs provide vital services to children age 0-5 and their families living in Union County through a framework of support for our community’s children, parents, and caregivers.
Question: Alliance for Children sounds like an amazing organization! How can I donate to this local nonprofit?
Answer: As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, we appreciate donations! You can donate online by clicking here: Donate Now. You can also donate with check or cash in person at our office at: 2661 W Roosevelt Blvd, Monroe, NC 28110, Monday through Thursday, 8:30am - 4:30 pm and Friday 8:30 am - 2:30 pm. We are closed for lunch daily from 11:45 am -1:15 pm.
Question: Do I have to register to join the parade, or can I just show up to participate on the day of?
Answer: You must register and pay to join the Union County Christmas Parade. If you show up on the day of the parade without registration and payment, you will unfortunately not be allowed to participate.
Question: How can I enter into the Union County Christmas Parade?
Answer: Our preferred method of entry is online. But you can also enter by fax, email, or in person at the Alliance for Children office: 2661 W Roosevelt Blvd, Monroe, NC 28110 Monday through Thursday, 8:30am - 4:30 pm and Friday 8:30 am - 2:30 pm. We are closed for lunch daily from 11:45 am -1:15 pm.
Question: How can I pay my entry fee for the Union County Christmas Parade?
Answer: Ways to pay your entry fee:
Online: Pay Now
Checks and money order made payable to: Alliance for Children in person at: 2661 W. Roosevelt Blvd. Suite A Monroe, NC 28110.
Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm and Friday 8:30 am - 2:30 pm. We are closed for lunch daily from 11:45 am -1:15 pm.
*We do not take debit/credit cards over the phone or in person.
Question: Can I volunteer for the parade?
Answer: Yes, please! The parade needs LOTS of volunteers to make this event happen. Please fill out our volunteer interest form here, and we'll get back to you soon: 2025 Union County Christmas Parade Volunteer Sign Up.
Question: Are there sponsorship opportunities for the parade?
Answer: Absolutely! Sponsorship begins at $500. Please see the Sponsor tab for more detailed information.
Question: What if it rains or snows on the day of the parade? Will it be cancelled?
Answer: This is a rain or shine event. Please plan accordingly.
Question: When does Alliance for Children open registration?
Answer: Alliance for Children opens registrations between late July to early August.
Question: When is the deadline for registrations?
Answer: The deadline for entries is November 10th. Early bird registration is until September 15th. We will accept entries between November 11th to November 17th, but for double the cost. Absolutely no more registrations will be accepted after November 17th.
Question: If I cancel my registration after I've already paid, can I have a refund?
Answer: While we understand things happen, we unfortunately cannot give refunds for parade entries. Please consider your fee a donation to our 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Question: What if I don't want to share my contact information?
Answer: Phone and email information are required in order to participate. We need this information to contact you about your place in the lineup, and for day of communication in case of emergency.
Question: What time should I arrive on parade day?
Answer: You will be contacted about your arrival time prior to parade day, but most floats arrive between 12 to 1 pm.
Question: Can I enter a horse, dog, car, ATV, or motorcycle into the parade?
Answer: Yes, but there are limits and additional fees associated. Please see the Guidelines for specific information on these.
Question: Can I throw candy or other items to the crowd?
Answer: For the safety of children, only walkers in the parade may distribute candy, coupons, cards, flyers, or similar items by hand. Participants in cars or on floats may not distribute or throw any objects into the crowd.
Question: Will there be food vendors at the Parade?
Answer: Yes!
Question: Where can I find parking info?
Answer: Please check out our parade map under the Route tab.
Question: I'm running for a government office. Can I enter the parade as a candidate?
Answer: Political candidates or politicians may only participate as a group, not as individuals. For example, you may enter as the Union County Democrats or Union County Republicans. Alliance for Children does not promote or endorse political candidates as part of the Union County Christmas Parade.
Question: Since the parade is outside, can I smoke?
Answer: No, since this is a family event, no smoking by participants is permitted while on site. This includes the use of E-cigarettes or vapes.
Question: Can I arrive early, park my float and come back later?
Answer: No, please do not leave floats, vehicles, or trailers unattended at any time prior to or during the parade.
Question: Approximately how long does the parade last?
Answer: The parade lasts approximately two hours.
Question: Can I order a pre-decorated float?
Answer: Yes, pre-decorated floats are available on a first come, first serve basis. Please see guidelines for details.
Question: I'm a UCPS school representative for the Princess Crowning. What are my next steps?
Answer: Congratulations! Please contact us at parade@theallianceforchildren.org for next steps.
Have another question, comment or suggestion?
Please email parade@theallianceforchildren.org.
