Bring your organization, performance group, decorated vehicle, float, or walking entry to Downtown Gilroy on Saturday, December 5. Parade entries are limited, so register early and review the participant responsibilities and rules below.
Community & Nonprofit Organizations
Share your mission and celebrate the people you serve.
Schools, Clubs & Youth Groups
Bring students, teams, scout groups, and youth organizations together for a festive experience.
Businesses & Decorated Vehicles
Show your community spirit with a family-friendly, holiday-themed entry.
Bands, Dance Teams & Performers
Add music, movement, and energy to the parade route.
Floats & Walking Groups
Create a memorable entry with lights, decorations, costumes, and holiday cheer.
12:00 p.m. — Staging Opens
Parade entries may begin arriving at their assigned staging area.
4:00 p.m. — Check-In Closes
All entries must be checked in and in position by this time.
4:30 p.m. — Judging Begins
Entries should be parade-ready for the judges.
Saturday, December 5, 2026
Final staging instructions and route details will be shared with registered participants.
Plan for your full group.
Entries are limited, and registration fees are nonrefundable.
Follow vehicle limits.
The number and type of vehicles allowed depends on the registered entry category.
Identify your entry.
Your organization or group name must be clearly visible on both sides.
Prepare for safety.
Floats and vehicles must carry a working fire extinguisher.
Care for animals.
Animal entries must provide a cleanup person and waste-removal supplies.
No throwing items
Nothing may be thrown from floats or vehicles. Passengers on floats or in vehicles may not hand out items. Walking participants may hand items directly to spectators.
Family-friendly entries
All decorations, signs, music, costumes, and performances must be appropriate for a community holiday event.
No political activity
Political campaigning, candidates, and political messaging are not permitted.
One official Santa
Santa costumes are not permitted so the festival’s official Santa remains the featured guest.
Keep it safe
Alcohol, smoking, illegal substances, and loud or disruptive noises are prohibited.
Follow event direction
Participants must follow staging instructions and directions from parade staff and public-safety personnel.
Please note: Parade schedule, staging assignments, route details, judging procedures, entry availability, and participant requirements are subject to change based on event needs and at the discretion of the Gilroy Downtown Business Association (GDBA). Submission of the registration form does not guarantee acceptance or a specific parade position. Registered participants must follow all final instructions provided by the event team.
Need help choosing an entry category or understanding the parade requirements? Contact the Holiday Festival team at marci@thebuzzpr.net.
Marci Bracco Cain
marci@thebuzzpr.net
