The City of Great Bend announced the theme for the 2025 Home for the Holidays Parade will be “Holiday Movie Madness.” This theme was chosen to honor the favorite films that make the holiday season even more special.
From “A Christmas Story,” to “Elf,” to “It’s a Wonderful Life,” and yes, even “Die Hard” for those who consider it a holiday movie, the city wants parade participants to bring their annual holiday rewatches to life. It’s requested that no Santas are featured on floats as it is tradition for Santa to come into town at the end of the parade. Adding magic behind the mic is Great Bend’s very own Cole Reif of Kansas Sports Chatter who will emcee the event. The parade’s Grand Marshal will be announced at a later date.
The Home for the Holidays Festival always takes place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving to officially kick off the Christmas season in Great Bend. This year, the festivities will be held on Nov. 29. One of the most beloved holiday traditions during this event is Santa’s official arrival, after which he begins his regular hours at Santa’s Around the World Building, 1223 Main Street.
Throughout the day leading up to the parade, festival-goers can enjoy a variety of holiday activities, including: The Rosewood Services Cookie Contest; The Dilly & Doc Pop-Up Market; The Window Decorating Contest, hosted by Great Bend Economic Development; Golden Belt Model Railroad; The Christmas Craft Mall; Pawsitive Luminaries, hosted by Paws & Claws/Adopt a Pet.
The lighted parade will begin at 5:30 p.m., making its way down Main Street. After the parade, the community is invited to stick around for all the exciting after-parade festivities, including: the Annual Lighting of the Mayor’s Tree; hot dogs and hot chocolate; ice skating; horse-drawn wagon, carriage and trolley rides; train rides; a Christmas Petting Zoo; a chance to visit Santa and tour Santas Around the World; the announcement of the Cookie Contest; the official opening of the Trail of Lights for the season
The city invites families, friends, and visitors to celebrate the holiday season, support local businesses and embrace the spirit of tradition that makes Great Bend’s holiday season so magical. For those wanting to participate in the parade, fill out the online form or stop by City Hall for a paper copy. For businesses and organizations planning to host a holiday related event on Nov. 29, please contact acrites@greatbendks.netto be placed on promotional items.
Additional details about the Home for the Holidays Festival and Parade can be found on Facebook and Instagram at The City of Great Bend and Explore Great Bend, or by visiting the events page.
