Registration for the 2026 Light Up the Parks Parade is not yet open. The form will open the first week of October.

The parade will take place into the evening so please be sure to have a lighted entry. An awards ceremony will take place during the Village of Machesney Park Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony immediately following the parade in the Town Center Roundabout. There will be 4 floats selected to receive awards. Awards will be presented to the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and the Mayor’s choice floats. People dressed as Santa Claus are not allowed on any float entries. There will only be one Santa Claus in the parade, which is arranged by event organizers (this rule is for younger children who still believe).

Begin your night at Loves Park City Hall where Mayor Jury will light the City's Christmas tree at 5:30 pm and kick off the parade with fireworks.

The parade starts at 5:45 pm leaving Loves Park City Hall and crossing over to Elm Ave., turning west on Roosevelt Rd., crossing N. Second St., concluding at the Town Center, located at 8750 N. Second St.

Finish your evening with Mayor Johnson at the Town Center roundabout, immediately following the parade, as he lights the Village's 30' Christmas tree. Santa & Mrs. Claus will be present to visit with the children and remember to bring your letters to Santa.