The Mission Candlelight Parade lights up downtown Mission on Saturday, December 5, 2026 at 6:00 PM. It’s one of the biggest night parades in the Fraser Valley, drawing more than 12,000 people for illuminated floats, community groups, Santa’s sleigh and, since last year, a fireworks show. It’s free to watch and about an hour’s drive from Vancouver.
Mission Candlelight Parade: Quick Facts
| What it is | Mission’s annual Christmas night parade with lit floats, Santa and fireworks |
| Date | Saturday, December 5, 2026 |
| Time | Parade at 6:00 PM |
| Where | Downtown Mission, BC |
| Cost | Free to watch |
| Crowd | More than 12,000 spectators |
| Organizer | Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce, with the City of Mission |
| Official page | missionchamber.bc.ca |
What to Expect
- Illuminated floats from local businesses, schools, sports teams, dance groups and charities. Judges hand out awards for categories like Light Up the Night and Holiday Spirit.
- Santa’s sleigh, towed through town as the parade’s finale.
- Fireworks. The 2025 parade added a fireworks show for the first time, and the Chamber says it’s doing it all again in 2026.
- Roaming vendors selling along the route.
Tips
- Arrive early to get a curbside spot, especially with small kids.
- Dress warmly. It’s a December evening outside, and Fraser Valley nights get cold.
- Allow time for traffic into and out of downtown Mission after the parade.
- Bring a light or glow stick for the kids. It’s a candlelight parade, after all.
Other Parades That Weekend
- The Maple Ridge Santa Claus Parade, the same evening.
- Timberline Country Christmas in Maple Ridge, from December 5.
- The Chilliwack Christmas Parade, the weekend before.
Every parade in the region is in our Santa Claus parades guide, and there’s more to do nearby in Christmas in Langley and the Fraser Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Mission Candlelight Parade in 2026?
Saturday, December 5, 2026, starting at 6:00 PM.
Is it free?
Yes, it’s free to watch.
Are there fireworks?
The parade added fireworks in 2025, and the Chamber plans to do it again in 2026.
Can my group enter a float?
Yes. Float registration closes November 20, 2026, with fees from $10 for non-profits and $25 for businesses.
Who organizes it?
The Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce, supported by the City of Mission.
Part of: Vancouver Christmas Guide 2026 › Santa Claus Parades in Metro Vancouver 2026
