2025 Raleigh Christmas Parade brings in holiday season in style

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- The most wonderful time of the year is here. Of course, we are talking about the 81st annual Raleigh Christmas Parade.

The holiday began Friday night, November 21, with the downtown Raleigh Tree Lighting.

The parade kicked off in downtown Raleigh the following day! Everything was broadcast LIVE on ABC11 and, the ABC11 streaming apps.

Of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus closed out the parade as only they can.

WHO'S THE GRAND MARSHAL?

• NC State legend Dereck Whittenburg was the Grand Marshal for the 81st Annual ABC11 Raleigh Christmas Parade presented by Shop Local Raleigh.

• The parade's Grand Marshal is an annual honor bestowed upon an individual or group that has made a significant impact on the community.

PARADE HISTORY

The first Raleigh Christmas Parade was on Saturday, November 25, 1939. It took a hiatus during WWII until 1945.

Click on Raleigh Christmas Parade for more history and facts.

SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Bundts by Brenee

ABC11 and Shop Local Raleigh are highlighting small businesses for the holiday season 2025. Bundts by Brenee is located at 428 Trinity Road.

Lightship Neon

ABC11 and Shop Local Raleigh are highlighting small businesses for the holiday season 2025. Lightship Neon is Raleigh's neon design studio, where every sign is custom-made by hand.

Needle and Thread Co.

Needle & Thread Co. offers handcrafted vintage Street-chic style clothing and accessories that are essentially one-of-one for women and men.

Zest Cafe & Home Art

The cafe which also is a boutique has been a part of the Raleigh community for more than 25 years.