Winder to hold 76th annual Christmas parade

The city of Winder has released the following:

The City of Winder will welcome residents and visitors to the 76th Annual Christmas Parade on Saturday, Dec. 13. The parade begins at 2 p.m. at Ingles and travels toward Jug Tavern Park, bringing festive floats, community groups, and holiday cheer through downtown.

This year, the popular Pet Parade and Reindeer Rider Bike Parade return as part of the celebration. Both will kick off at 2:15 p.m. from the Winder Fire Station, giving families, kid-cyclists, and four-legged friends a chance to join the fun! Registration for these two specialty parades remains open. 

“We’re excited to announce that Council Member Sonny Morris will serve as this year’s Grand Marshal. After 39 years on council, there’s no one more deserving of leading this parade,” said Director of Events, Talore Ruedt. 

Following the main parade, families are invited to Santa’s After Party at Jug Tavern Park, where Santa will greet guests, take photos, and enjoy one last celebration before heading back to the North Pole at 5:30 p.m. The park will also feature vendors, food trucks, a DJ, and a free kids zone. 

New for 2025, the City of Winder is launching its Holiday Artisan Market, showcasing handcrafted goods, gifts, and seasonal items from local makers. Guests are encouraged to stop by before or after the parade to support regional artisans and shop for unique holiday finds. 

Parade applications are now closed; however, interested groups may join the waitlist. Registration for the Pet Parade and Reindeer Rider Bike Parade remains open. 

This year’s festivities are presented by Northeast Georgia Medical Center Barrow and proudly sponsored by ESG Operations, Akins Ford, and The Yummy Sweets.