2026 Parade Date: Saturday, December 5, 2026 at 5:50pm
For questions related to registration, please contact csfestivaloflights@gmail.com
Colorado Springs Festival of Lights
Registration will open Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Entry Timeline & Fee Structure
September 9 – October 14, 2026 Luminous Launch Window
October 15 – November 13, 2026 Grand Sparkling Finale
Non-Profit
Luminous Launch Window
$300
(Prices go up Oct. 15)
Commercial
Luminous Launch Window
$700
(Prices go up Oct. 15)
Join Us for the 42nd Annual Festival of Lights Parade
Saturday, December 5, 2026 | Parade begins at 5:50 p.m. | Staging opens at 2:30 p.m.
Thank you for your interest in participating in the 42nd Annual Festival of Lights Parade! We look forward to welcoming your organization as part of this beloved Colorado Springs holiday tradition.
Space is limited, and entries are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Each year, registration reaches capacity and late applications may not be accommodated, so we encourage you to submit your entry early.
The final registration deadline is November 13, 2026. Applications received after this date will only be considered if space allows.
Payment Options
We accept a range of payment methods, including credit cards, ACH transfers, and conventional paper checks. If opting for paper checks, please make them payable to “Festival of Lights, Inc.” and send them via mail to: Festival of Lights, Inc. 6910 Yellowpine Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80919. All entry payments are NON-REFUNDABLE.
Participation Guidelines
Thank you for your interest in participating in the 42nd Annual Festival of Lights Parade! We are excited to welcome your organization as part of this beloved Colorado Springs holiday tradition.
Every parade participant plays an important role in creating one of Colorado Springs’ most cherished holiday traditions. The Festival of Lights Parade is made possible through the creativity, enthusiasm, and commitment of the businesses, organizations, schools, nonprofits, military units, and community groups that participate each year.
Space is limited, and entries are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Each year, registration reaches capacity and late applications may not be accommodated, so we encourage you to submit your entry early.
The final registration deadline is November 13, 2026. Applications received after this date will only be considered if space allows.
Registration & Entry Requirements
- All parade entries must complete the official registration form and provide accurate information about their organization, entry type, and participation plans.
- To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants and spectators, entries must follow all Festival of Lights Parade guidelines and instructions provided by the Parade Committee.
- Registration approval is subject to available space and compliance with parade requirements.
Fees & Payment
- Entry fees may be paid by credit card, ACH transfer, or check.
- All entry fees are non-refundable.
- **A non-profit organization for the Festival of Lights Parade is defined as a local organization with income largely derived from donations and grants.
Timing and Arrival
- All entries must arrive at their assigned staging location during the designated arrival window provided by the Parade Committee.
- Staging area opens at 2:30 PM
- All entries must be in place by 4:00 PM
- Parade kickoff is approximately 5:30 PM
- Late arrivals may impact the parade lineup and may not be permitted to participate.
Staging & Parade Lineup
- Each entry will receive assigned staging information prior to parade day. Participants should review all staging instructions carefully and share arrival details with all members of their group.
- Please follow directions from Parade Committee staff and volunteers to ensure an efficient staging process.
Entry Requirements & Expectations
- All entries should reflect the spirit of the Festival of Lights Parade by incorporating creativity, holiday themes, and appropriate lighting elements.
- Entries are responsible for providing all necessary equipment, vehicles, decorations, and participants required for their entry.
- All participants must follow parade safety requirements and instructions provided by Parade Committee staff.
Safety Guidelines
The safety of participants, volunteers, and spectators is our highest priority.
All entries must:
- Follow all parade route instructions
- Maintain safe spacing between entries
- Follow vehicle and float safety requirements
- Ensure all participants remain with their assigned entry throughout the parade
- Follow directions from Parade Committee staff and public safety personnel
Judging & Awards
- Entries may be considered for recognition in various categories based on creativity, appearance, lighting, and overall presentation.
- Award categories and judging criteria will be communicated prior to parade day.