61st Annual Jaycees Christmas Parade Set to Bring Holiday Magic Back to Downtown Wilmington

Marching band musicians perform during a previous Wilmington Jaycees Christmas Parade, bringing festive music to downtown streets.
Photo credit: Wilmington Jaycees

Wilmington Jaycees, in partnership with the City of Wilmington, kicks off Small Business Saturday and ushers in the start of the city’s festive season.

Jamie Kleman, Contributing Writer, Delaware Live | November 2025

Wilmington’s holiday spirit will be on full display once again as the 61st Annual Jaycees Christmas Parade makes its return to Market Street in downtown Wilmington on Saturday, November 29 at 11 am. The long-running tradition, organized by the Wilmington Jaycees in partnership with the City of Wilmington, arrives just in time to help kick off Small Business Saturday and usher in the start of the city’s festive season.

“For 61 years, the Jaycees Christmas parade has spread holiday cheer throughout the city,” said Mayor John Carney. “This is a great opportunity to check off items on your holiday shopping list by supporting the diverse small businesses that make up our downtown neighborhood.”

The parade has long been a cornerstone of Wilmington’s holiday calendar, and this year’s return reflects a collective effort by city leaders, community groups, volunteers, and residents who were determined to see it come back.

According to Delaware Jaycees President and Parade Director Josh Hoveln, the resurgence of the event was driven by the community itself. “The parade is back this year because a lot of people cared enough to bring it back. The Mayor’s Office, the City of Wilmington, Community members, local organizations, and partners across the city stepped up and said, ‘We’re not letting this tradition go.’ Once everyone aligned, it came together quickly. It really shows what can happen when Wilmington decides something is important.”

This year’s parade promises the same beloved elements that have made it a cherished event for more than six decades. Crowds can expect colorful floats, antique cars, marching bands, string bands, youth groups, local performers, and familiar faces from across the community. At the center of the celebration will be Santa Claus, whose arrival always marks the official start of the season for many families.

Children attending the parade are encouraged to write letters to Santa and drop them off as he passes by. The Wilmington Jaycees will work with Santa and his elves to send a reply to every child who includes a complete mailing address.

Hoveln says the return of the parade means much more than simply reviving an event. “This parade is one of those events people in Wilmington grew up with. It’s a moment where the whole community shows up; families, small businesses, performers, everyone. It brings life into downtown and reminds us of what makes this city special. It’s more than a parade; it’s something people look forward to every year.”

He added that he is especially excited to see the crowds return to downtown stores and restaurants for Small Business Saturday. “I’m honestly just excited to see everyone back together again. There’s nothing like watching kids light up when the floats or bands come through. That feeling of the city waking up for the holidays; you can’t replace it. I’m also excited to see all the folks shopping in Downtown again this year for Small Business Saturday.”

Holiday parades have long served as an opportunity to highlight local pride, and Wilmington’s has welcomed an impressive lineup of local and national talent over the years. Past participants have included 2011 Oscar winner Luke Matheny, actress Aubrey Plaza, NFL legend Vince Papale, heavyweight champion Michael Spinks, middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins, Olympic gold medalist Dionna Harris, and musicians Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr., among many others from the fields of film, television, sports, and theater.

While the event celebrates performers and celebrities, it is powered by volunteers and partners whose behind-the-scenes efforts make everything possible. “This event only works because so many people pitch in,” Hoveln said. “Our volunteers give countless hours, our partners help with resources and logistics, and the community shows up in a big way. It truly takes everyone, and that teamwork is what makes the parade a success year after year.”

The Wilmington Jaycees, who have been active in the community for over 80 years, continue to utilize the parade as a means to support, engage, and showcase the city they serve. As part of JCI (Junior Chamber International), the organization focuses on service, leadership development, and civic involvement for individuals ages 21 to 40.

With the parade’s return, Wilmington residents will once again fill the sidewalks, greet their neighbors, cheer on performers, and welcome the start of the season together.

Staff Writer

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