Festival of Lights Parade in Bangor, Maine — Holiday Magic, Santa, & Spectacular Nighttime Floats
- Gerry Caron
- Nov 29, 2025
- 4 min read
Festival of Lights Parade in Bangor, Maine — Presented by the Rotary Club of Bangor
The Festival of Lights Parade—one of Maine’s most magical holiday events—returns to Downtown Bangor on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at 6:30 PM. Presented by the Rotary Club of Bangor, this beloved seasonal celebration gathers families, visitors, and holiday lovers from across Eastern and Central Maine for an unforgettable night of winter magic, community pride, and sparkling lights.
📍 Location: Downtown Bangor, Maine4 Bower St, Bangor, ME 04401
📆 Date: Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025
⏰ Time: 6:30 PM
☎️ Parade Participation Contact: Roland Narofsky — 207-862-7259
🎄 A Parade That Ushers in the Holiday Season
Bangor’s Festival of Lights Parade has been a cherished holiday staple for decades—an event that marks the official kickoff to the season for thousands of attendees.
Hosted annually by the Rotary Club of Bangor, the parade features:
✨ 80+ illuminated units
✨ Marching bands and musical performances
✨ Brilliantly decorated floats
✨ Dance troupes & performing groups
✨ Cultural and holiday scenes
✨ Special appearances and surprises
This spectacular nighttime display continues to be a highlight for families throughout the region, bringing joy, wonder, and the unmistakable glow of holiday spirit to Downtown Bangor.
🌟 2025 Theme: Create Hope in the World
This year’s theme centers around hope, positivity, and the universal joy of the holiday season. Parade participants are encouraged to design floats and performances that reflect:
Community inspiration
Holiday traditions
Messages of unity and kindness
Cultural celebrations
Floats and entries may represent:
🎄 Christmas
🕎 Hanukkah
🌙 Ramadan
🌞 Solstice
🟩 Kwanzaa
🎉 New Year's
❄️ Or any winter holiday celebration
The Festival of Lights Parade invites groups to showcase what brings hope and joy to their communities.
🎁 Downtown Bangor Comes Alive
With thousands lining the streets, Bangor transforms into a winter wonderland filled with:
✔ Hot cocoa stands
✔ Local shops open late
✔ Festive window displays
✔ Restaurants offering holiday specials
✔ Family-friendly activities before and after the parade
Once the parade concludes, make your way to West Market Square for the official lighting of the holiday tree—one of the most heartwarming and photographed moments of the season.
🎅 Santa Claus Arrives!
No Maine holiday event is complete without the jolly man himself.Santa Claus closes out the parade, greeting children and officially welcoming the holiday season to Bangor.
🎆 Want to Participate in the Parade?
Float creators, performers, marching groups, and community organizations are invited to take part.
📞 Contact Parade Chair Roland Narofsky at 207-862-7259 to register your group or ask questions.
Businesses, schools, nonprofits, clubs, and creative teams are all encouraged to join this magical celebration.
🧭 Event Logistics & Visitor Tips
🚗 Parking
Downtown Bangor offers several public lots and garages—arrive early for best availability.
🧥 Dress Warm
Being a nighttime parade in early December, temperatures are typically cold. Dress in layers and bring hand warmers.
📸 Best Viewing Spots
Main St.
Hammond St.
Central St.
West Market Square (where the tree lighting happens!)
🍽️ Make It a Night Out
Consider visiting local favorites such as:
Blaze Bangor
11 Central
Sea Dog Brewing Co.
The Fiddlehead Restaurant
❤️ A Holiday Tradition Rooted in Community
“For many it signals the official start of the holiday season,” says Earl Black, President of the Rotary Club of Bangor.“It’s heartwarming to see the community come together each December and share in this wonderful event.”
The Festival of Lights Parade embodies everything Bangor loves about the holidays—community connection, tradition, celebration, and joy.
🔗 Helpful Links
Rotary Club of Bangor Website
Festival of Lights Parade Event Page
Downtown Bangor Parking Map
Bangor Festivals & Events Calendar
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from across Eastern and Central Maine for an unforgettable night of winter magic, community pride, and sparkling lights with a Dazzling Holiday Tradition That Lights Up Downtown Bangor
