The holiday season officially kicked off in Downtown Frederick this past Friday with the much-anticipated Kris Kringle Parade. Sponsored by Wawa and presented in partnership with Key 103, the annual event brought festive cheer to the streets, captivating crowds with a vibrant procession of costumed characters, live music, and performances and cameos from local groups.

The parade began at the corner of South Carroll Street and East Patrick Street, winding its way through the heart of the city. From there, the procession turned right onto North Market Street, then left onto West Second Street, concluding at the beloved Baker Park.

One of the standout features of this year’s parade was the participation of local organizations, with the D9 organizations among the many groups invited to join in spreading holiday cheer. Their spirited contributions, among others, helped to make the parade even more special for families and spectators of all backgrounds.

The festivities were filled with a range of holiday-themed characters, from Santa Claus and his helpers to beloved winter figures, all bringing smiles and laughter to the crowd. Live music filled the air, and the energy was contagious, creating a truly magical atmosphere as the streets of Downtown Frederick came alive with holiday spirit.

This year’s Kris Kringle Parade was a perfect way to celebrate the season, bringing the community together and kicking off the countdown to Christmas in unforgettable style. With the support of sponsors like Wawa and Key 103, it’s clear that this beloved tradition is stronger than ever, and we can’t wait to see what next year brings!

photo credit: Veronica Lowe