Know Before You Go: Holly Springs’ (NC) Happy Holly Days Parade Steps Off Saturday Morning (12/13) at 10:00 a.m.
Plan ahead with parking tips, road-closure details, best viewing spots, and accessibility info as Holly Springs gets ready to bring Main Street to life with its biggest holiday tradition of the year.
Holly Springs, NC, Dec. 11, 2025 — One of Holly Springs’ most beloved traditions returns this weekend as the Happy Holly Days Parade rolls down Main Street on Saturday, Dec. 13th, starting at 10:00 a.m. The annual event brings out thousands of local and area residents to celebrate with floats, marching bands, dancers, local and regional organizations, youth groups, decorated vehicles, and plenty of hometown holiday spirit.
The parade travels the traditional Main Street route through downtown, beginning at 10 a.m. Spectators typically start gathering well before that, especially near Town Hall, the Cultural Center, and the Food Lion shopping center, which remains one of the most popular viewing areas.
Road Closures: What to Expect
Residents should plan before heading to the parade:
Roads along and near the parade route close at 7:30 a.m.
Detours will be in place; the Town’s official detour map provides a full overview.
Drivers moving through downtown earlier in the morning should allow extra time or choose alternate routes.
Where to Park
Downtown offers more than 600 public parking spaces, many within a 3–5 minute walk of the parade route. Top options include:
Closest to Main Street (3-minute walk)
The Town Hall parking deck and surrounding lots
Portions of Ballentine Street
Avent Ferry Road lots near Ballentine and Rogers streets
Within 5 minutes
Holly Springs Cultural Center parking lot
Park & Walk Options
To avoid congestion, the Town suggests parking at nearby parks and schools and walking in:
Womble Park
The Hunt Center
Jones Park / Holly Springs Elementary
These locations remain popular with families looking for easy access without navigating downtown closures.
Accessibility: Best Spot for Parade Viewing
For those needing accessible parking and a clear view of the parade, the Town recommends the Food Lion shopping center on South Main Street. Spaces there fill quickly, so attendees should plan to arrive early.
What You’ll See
While the 2025 participant list has closed, residents can expect the signature mix of:
Community floats
Local dance groups
School marching bands
Holiday-decorated vehicles
Youth organizations and civic groups
The Happy Holly Days Parade is often described as one of the most cheerful mornings of the year in Holly Springs, offering a snapshot of the town’s growing, engaged, and creative community.
Final Tips
Arrive early for the best viewing spots.
Dress warmly. December mornings on Main Street can be chilly.
Consider walking or carpooling to minimize congestion.
Monitor detours and allow extra time if traveling through downtown.
The Town encourages everyone to come out and celebrate as Holly Springs brings holiday cheer to Main Street once again.