The long-standing Southbay tradition is set to resume this Christmas season after a three-year pause, which was temporarily discontinued due to the COVID-19 global pandemic.
The city of Chula Vista and Downtown Chula Vista Association invite families across the city to take part in this year’s Starlight Parade and Festival, encouraging locals to wear their festive holiday gear for this holiday celebration.
The parade’s official website states the following:
Dust off your sparkliest holiday gear, jazz up those light accessories, and get ready to rock your reindeer horns because guess what? It’s time to roll out the red carpet for the most awaited, fantastically festive event of the season – the Starlight Parade is making its long-awaited comeback! After a three-year hiatus that felt like a century, this legendary family-friendly holiday parade is back in action, and trust us, it’s more spectacular than ever before!
According to event organizers, the event will be scheduled from 3 and forward on Sunday, December 3rd. Visitors can enjoy the entertainment and photos and write letters to Santa Claus from 3 to 6 p.m., along with the opportunity to ride on the Chula Vista Express for a festive holiday ride.
The Holiday Market Place will also be open to the public from 3 to 7 p.m. For locals considering submitting a vendor application for the Holiday Market Place, the link is provided here.
Important note: According to the event organizers, all applicants must have General Business Liability Insurance. Food vendors must possess an active Temporary Food Facility Permit or Cottage Food Registration. And for craft vendor applicants it is required to have a California Seller’s permit. The event will prioritize locally made products to provide a variety of offerings, according to event organizers. The Tree Lighting Ceremony is scheduled for 5:45 to 6 p.m.
Third Avenue will turn into a family-oriented vibe surrounded by lights and festive joy between H and E Streets for over 4 hours.
Making a special appearance is a 25-foot-tall festive tree to light up the night. The parade includes whimsical floats, joyous marching bands, and dancing squads. And to produce a festive Chicano atmosphere, there will be classic cars cruising through the parade.
Santa Claus will make a special appearance with a grand entrance in a local Chula Vista Fire Engine.
We are one month away from the most festive night of the year in Chula Vista, and you do not want to miss it.