WEST CHESTER, PA — Marching bands, award-winning floats, sparkling performances and a special appearance by Santa Claus will fill downtown West Chester with holiday excitement as the borough’s Hometown Christmas Parade returns Friday, Dec. 4, 2026.
Hosted by the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce, the free celebration begins with a Christmas tree lighting at 6:30 p.m., followed by the parade at 7 p.m. This year’s procession promises more marching bands, returning local favorites and new participants, along with a special appearance celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
The festivities will take place rain or shine, bringing families and visitors together for one of Chester County’s signature holiday traditions.
More Marching Bands, Festive Floats and Santa Claus
The 2026 West Chester Hometown Christmas Parade will feature an expanded lineup of marching bands in response to popular demand.
Spectators can also look forward to elaborate floats, dance performances and entertainment from familiar Chester County performers alongside newcomers making their parade debuts.
Santa Claus will make his anticipated appearance, bringing a highlight of the evening for children and families gathered along the downtown streets.
America250 will also be part of the festivities, adding a patriotic element as the nation marks the 250th anniversary of American independence.
The parade will include competitions recognizing outstanding entries in two categories: Best Commercial Parade Float and Best Nonprofit Parade Entry.
The awards will spotlight the creativity and effort of participating businesses and nonprofit organizations.
A 28-Foot Christmas Tree Lights Up the Courthouse
Before the parade begins, the holiday celebration will get underway at 6:30 p.m. with the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Historic Chester County Courthouse.
The ceremony will take place on the courthouse steps facing High Street, where a 28-foot Christmas tree will become the centerpiece of the evening’s festivities.
Guests can enjoy dance and musical performances before the tree is illuminated.
Returning hosts 6abc meteorologist Adam Joseph and B101 radio personality Kathy Romano, host of “The Kathy Romano Show,” will lead the ceremony and the evening’s parade festivities.
The tree lighting is sponsored by Key Financial Inc.
A Holiday Tradition for the Whole Community
The West Chester Hometown Christmas Parade brings together local performers, businesses, nonprofit organizations and families for a shared celebration of the season.
With additional marching bands, competitive floats and entertainment for all ages, this year’s event offers both familiar traditions and new attractions.
The evening also provides an opportunity for visitors to experience downtown West Chester during the holiday season, with its restaurants, shops and historic streets providing the setting for the festivities.
Event Details
- What: West Chester Hometown Christmas Parade and Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, featuring marching bands, floats, musical and dance performances, America250 participation and Santa Claus.
- When: Friday, Dec. 4, 2026. Tree lighting begins at 6:30 p.m.; parade starts at 7 p.m. and is scheduled to conclude at approximately 8:30 p.m.
- Where: Downtown West Chester, West Chester, PA 19380. The tree lighting takes place at the Historic Chester County Courthouse, 2 N. High St., West Chester, PA 19380, on the steps facing High Street. The parade takes place through downtown streets.
- Cost/Tickets: Free to the public. No tickets required.
- More Info: Visit https://www.downtownwestchester.com/event/west-chester-hometown-christmas-parade-2026/ for event information.
Rain or Shine
The West Chester Hometown Christmas Parade will take place regardless of rain, and organizers have not scheduled a rain date.
Families planning to attend should dress for December weather and allow time to find a viewing location before the parade begins.
From the lighting of the courthouse Christmas tree to the arrival of Santa Claus, the evening promises a festive celebration of community spirit and holiday tradition.
With more marching bands and a lineup of local performers, West Chester’s Hometown Christmas Parade offers families a memorable way to welcome the season together.
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