34th Lighting Ceremony Parade

The Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association is pleased to announce the 34th Annual Lighting Ceremony Parade, presented by Spokane Teachers Credit Union, on November 27, 2026. Watch the parade entries light up Sherman Avenue and bring the Holiday Spirit to Downtown CDA with this year's parade theme: "Santa's Workshop," with marching bands, dancing, music, and festive floats!

DATE & TIME
Friday, November 27, 2026 at 5:00 pm

PARADE THEME

Santa's Workshop - With elves hard at work, reindeer readying for flight, and holiday magic around every corner, Santa’s Workshop is bustling with cheer! Step into the magical world of the North Pole and transform your parade entry into a festive workshop where Christmas comes to life. Picture Santa’s elves building toys, wrapping presents, checking their lists, and working together to get everything ready for Christmas Eve! Think giant toy boxes, toy trains, rocking horses, conveyor belts, wrapping stations, and mountains of brightly wrapped gifts. Bring your workshop to life with creative floats, costumes, music, and plenty of dazzling lights. Use festive colors, sparkling decorations, ribbons, bows, oversized toys, and plenty of Santa’s hardworking elves to create a magical holiday scene straight from the North Pole!

PARADE ROUTE
The parade begins at the intersection of Sherman Avenue and 8th Street and continues west along Sherman Avenue, ending at Government Way. 

CONTACT
Olivia Tauvinkl

208-415-0116

olivia@cdadowntown.com

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
The following must be submitted by the application deadline to participate in the parade:
1. Completed Application
2. Registration Fee 
3. Proof of Insurance 

APPLICATION DEADLINE
Sunday, November 15, 2026

ACCEPTANCE & NOTIFICATION

• You will be notified of your unit's acceptance into the parade no later than Monday, November 16, 2026.
• The main contact listed on the application is responsible for ensuring that all members of their unit receive and follow parade information and instructions.  
• Themed floats, decorated vehicles, costumes, and other creative entries are highly encouraged.
• At least 50% of each float must be covered in lights. 
• If your entry is not accepted, payment will be refunded in full. No refunds will be issued for cancellations.

REGISTRATION FEES

• Marine, Police, Fire, etc.: FREE 
  Includes organizations directly related to and acknowledged by the U.S. Pentagon  (military, government and public safety organizations, etc.)
• Non-Commercial Units: $70 
  Includes nonprofits, community groups, churches, public service organizations, Scouts, local theater groups, and other community based organizations.
• Commercial Units: $100
  Applies to businesses, corporations, and entries promoting a business, product, service, or other commercial enterprise. Examples include coffee stands, towing companies, and other local businesses.

VEHICLES:
Drivers of all vehicles participating in the parade, as well as those entering the parade line-up area, must have a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance as required by state law, and be at least 18 years old.