The Rowlett Christmas parade and tree lighting — our favorite small-town tradition

If you're new to Rowlett, the Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting is THE community event of the year. It feels like a Hallmark movie but it's actually real and it's actually great.

2026 Details (based on prior years — dates typically announced in October):

• When: First Saturday in December (likely December 6, 2026)
• Parade start: 6:00pm
• Route: Main Street, from City Hall eastbound to the Downtown area
• Tree lighting: Immediately after the parade, usually around 7:00pm at the Main Street tree

The parade lineup (what to expect):

• Rowlett Fire Department leads with the engines (kids lose their minds)
• High school marching band — they're actually really good
• Local business floats — some are elaborate, some are a pickup truck with lights, all are charming
• Dance studios, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, church groups
• Classic cars — there's always a gorgeous vintage truck
• Santa on the last float, because that's how it's supposed to work

Where to stand/sit:

• Best spot: The stretch of Main Street between City Hall and the library. You're close to the action and close to the tree lighting spot.
• Pro move: Bring folding chairs and set up by 5:00pm. The curb fills up fast.
• Avoid: The west end of the route near the staging area. Floats are still getting organized and it's chaotic.

What to bring:

• Folding chairs or a blanket
• Hot chocolate in a thermos (or buy it from the vendors — there are usually 2-3 selling hot drinks)
• Warm layers — December in Rowlett is 40-55F typically, but it feels colder when you're sitting still
• Cash for vendors and food trucks
• A good attitude. This is small-town Texas at its best.

After the parade:

• The tree lighting is a short ceremony — mayor speaks, countdown, tree lights up. Kids love it.
• Downtown businesses usually stay open with holiday specials
• Some years there's a Santa meet-and-greet at the Community Centre after — check the city website closer to the date

Why it matters:

• Rowlett is 70,000 people. It's not a tiny town anymore. But this parade makes it feel like one. You see your neighbors, your kids' teachers, your mail carrier on a float. It's the one night where the whole city shows up to the same place.
• If you moved to Rowlett from a bigger city and wonder what the community is really like, come to this event. You'll get it.

Sources:

• City of Rowlett Events page (rowlett.com/events)
• Previous years' parade schedules (2022-2025)
• Personal attendance every year since 2018