Charlotte, NC, November 25, 2025
The 79th Annual Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade is set to take place in Uptown Charlotte, featuring festive floats, live performances, and an expected crowd of around 50,000. The parade, which will be broadcast live, begins at 5:30 p.m. and is a great opportunity for families to come together. Attendees are advised about road closures and parking options while enjoying this cherished community event.
Charlotte, NC – Get Ready for the 79th Annual Thanksgiving Eve Parade: What You Need to Know!
Join the excitement as the 79th Annual Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade rolls through Uptown Charlotte on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. This beloved local tradition promises a captivating evening filled with festive floats, live performances, and community spirit. As an event that consistently showcases the resilience and creativity of Charlotte’s organizers, it exemplifies the possibilities when civic engagement thrives, free from unnecessary bureaucratic constraints.
With approximately 50,000 spectators expected to attend, the parade offers a fantastic opportunity for individuals and families alike to come together and celebrate the holiday season. The parade festivities kick off at 5:30 p.m. and will be broadcast live, allowing both in-person and remote audiences to soak in the cheerful atmosphere.
Parade Details
The parade will initiate at 9th Street and proceed south along Tryon Street, concluding near Good Samaritan Way. This one-mile route is expected to last around two hours, featuring an array of marching bands, stunning floats, and larger-than-life balloons that children and adults will both admire. For those tuning in from home, the parade will be aired live on local television from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Road Closures
To ensure safety and accommodate the parade, several streets will be closed on the evening of the event. From 5:00 p.m. until at least 11:30 p.m., expect the following closures:
- Tryon Street between 9th Street and Morehead Street
- 3rd through 8th Streets between College Street and Church Street
- Trade Street between College Street and Church Street
- Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard between College Street and Church Street
- Levine Avenue of the Arts
- Brooklyn Village Avenue between College Street and Church Street
- Good Samaritan Way between College Street and Church Street
Attendees should prepare for these changes by planning alternative routes and travel times.
Parking and Transportation
Ample parking options are available throughout Uptown Charlotte, with prices varying by location. Spectators are encouraged to park near the end of the parade route at accessible spots such as the Convention Center, NASCAR Hall of Fame, or the Duke Energy Center. For those opting for public transportation, the LYNX Blue Line and CityLYNX Gold Line offer convenient access to the parade route, with stations located strategically along the way.
Viewing the Parade
While attendance to the parade is free, bringing your own chair is recommended for a comfortable viewing experience along Tryon Street, specifically from 9th Street to Brooklyn Village Avenue. Those seeking reserved seating can purchase VIP tickets; children aged 2 and under can attend without a ticket if seated on a guardian’s lap.
Additional Information
The Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade is cherished not only for its festive displays but also for the opportunities it provides for local businesses and civic organizations to showcase their talents. The event concludes around 8:00 p.m., allowing attendees ample time to explore nearby opportunities such as the “Light the Knights” event at Truist Field or enjoying the culinary offerings of Uptown’s many local restaurants.
Weather Forecast
On parade day, Charlotte is forecasted to have mostly cloudy skies, with temperatures ranging from a low of 51°F (10°C) to a high of 74°F (23°C). As the evening progresses, expect the skies to clear, with temperatures dropping to a comfortable 60°F (16°C) by 7:00 p.m.
FAQ
Is the parade happening rain or shine?
Yes, the Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade will take place rain or shine. Spectators are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
Do I need a ticket to watch the parade?
No, you do not need a ticket to watch the parade. Spectators can bring their own chairs and watch the parade for free along Tryon Street from 9th Street to Brooklyn Village Avenue. Reserved seating is available for purchase in the VIP section.
Where can I park for the parade?
Ample parking is available around Center City with varying prices. Spectators are encouraged to park near the end of the parade route at locations such as the Convention Center, NASCAR Hall of Fame, or the Duke Energy Center. Public transportation options include the LYNX Blue Line and CityLYNX Gold Line, both of which provide easy access to the parade route. The 7th Street, CTC/Arena, and 3rd Street/Convention Center stations are conveniently located along the parade path.
What time does the parade start and end?
The parade will step off at 5:30 p.m. and is expected to conclude by 8:00 p.m.
Will the parade be broadcast on television?
Yes, the parade will be broadcast live on WCCB Charlotte from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., allowing viewers to enjoy the festivities from home.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | 79th Annual Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade |
| Date and Time | Wednesday, November 26, 2025, 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. |
| Location | Uptown Charlotte, Tryon Street from 9th Street to Good Samaritan Way |
| Expected Attendance | Approximately 50,000 spectators |
| Broadcast | Live on WCCB Charlotte from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. |
| Road Closures | Several streets in Uptown Charlotte will be closed from 5:00 p.m. to at least 11:30 p.m. |
| Parking | Ample parking available around Center City; public transportation options include the LYNX Blue Line and CityLYNX Gold Line |
| Seating | Bring your own chair or purchase VIP seating; children 2 and under do not require a ticket but must sit on a guardian’s lap |
| Weather Forecast | Mostly cloudy with temperatures ranging from 51°F (10°C) to 74°F (23°C); clear skies in the evening with temperatures around 60°F (16°C) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charlotte Unveils Festive Lineup of Holiday Events
Charlotte Thrives with Weekend Events and Sports
Charlotte Teams Shine in Holiday Basketball Tournaments
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
