BEDFORD — With 90 parade spots already filled and organizers expecting well over 100 total registrations, the 2025 Bedford Christmas Parade is on track to be one of the most exciting in city history. Because several participants are bringing multiple units, officials estimate that more than 90 vehicles and floats will roll through downtown Bedford on Saturday, Dec. 6 at 6 p.m., creating a massive illuminated spectacle that they anticipate will draw thousands of spectators.
This year’s theme is a general “Christmas” celebration, giving participants complete creative freedom, as long as every entry includes Christmas lights, a requirement for the city’s illuminated nighttime parade. Floats, vehicles, and walking groups are all welcome, and each unit must be decorated accordingly. Parade officials emphasize that no Santa costumes or impersonators are allowed, as the city’s official Santa anchors the parade finale.
The parade route begins at 15th and M streets and ends at 13th and Lincoln Avenue, with thousands of spectators expected along the sidewalks. Food trucks and official festival vendors will line J Street, adding to the downtown atmosphere as the 6 p.m. start approaches.
A significant update for parade participants this year: lineup placement is now determined by arrival time, reducing congestion and eliminating the frequent repositioning that has complicated past parades. Entries may still be asked to adjust if spacing conflicts occur, but arrival-order staging is expected to streamline the entire process.
Safety and logistics guidelines remain firmly in place. Floats using generators must have proper 16/3 AWG cords, approved fuel containers, and an ABC fire extinguisher. Anything using flammable materials also requires an extinguisher. Walkers must keep pace with the parade’s movement, and candy cannot be thrown from floats; instead, participants may donate candy beforehand for safe distribution by volunteers.
With last year’s parade drawing massive crowds and a record number of entries, Bedford Revitalization Inc. says this year’s event aims to push that excitement even further. Organizers are encouraging registration to secure a spot in what is expected to be a full lineup.
Hurry, there’s still time to register! Those interested can find the parade map, rules, and entry form at DowntownBedford.org.
