The City of Encinitas invites the community to celebrate the holiday season at its 68th Annual Holiday Parade, presented by RadMaps by Airwave, on Saturday, Dec. 6. This beloved annual event will light up Coast Highway 101 with festive cheer, starting promptly at 5:30 p.m., traveling south from D Street to J Street. A ceremonial tree lighting and a special visit from Santa Claus will kick off the festivities at 5 p.m. at the Lumberyard Shops courtyard (between H and I Streets).

The theme of the 2025 Encinitas Holiday Parade, “Peace by the Pacific,” celebrates the vibrant spirit of innovation and imagination that flows through the Encinitas community. From colorful floats to dynamic performances, participants are invited to bring their creative ideas to life in a moving display of art, culture, and festive cheer, according to a news release.

This year’s Grand Marshal is Bill Harman, chosen for his lifelong commitment to peace that reflects the 2025 parade theme, “Peace by the Pacific.” Known throughout Encinitas as “Pastor Bill,” he has spent more than 60 years promoting peace and understanding around the world—from teaching seminary students in Tanzania to serving communities across the U.S., Caribbean, and Europe.

Since making Encinitas home in 1982, he has continued this work as a beloved pastor, educator, and community mentor, inspiring students and residents through his teachings on compassion, world religions, and unity. As Pastor Bill often shared in the news release, “Peace is the absence of conflict yet having internal contentment. My goal is to bring people together.”

The Encinitas Holiday Parade is the largest of its kind in North County, attracting over 10,000 spectators with this year’s event including over 85 entries to dazzle the crowds. Entries will be judged, and awards given in a variety of categories. Entries will compete for awards in categories such as Best Use of Theme, Best Use of Lights, Best Spirit, Best Performance, and the coveted Best Overall.

Coast Highway 101 will close at 4 p.m. Complimentary parking is available at San Dieguito Academy High School (corner of Nardo Road and Melba Road) and Ecke Sports Park/YMCA on Saxony Road. Free shuttle service will run from both lots to the parade area beginning at 4 p.m. and make the last downtown pickups at 8:30 p.m.

Shuttles run approximately every 20 minutes and will drop off and pick up at the NCTD bus station on Vulcan Avenue, just a half block from the Parade route. ADA-accessible shuttles will be available from the San Dieguito Academy location. Limited street parking is available near the route, with traffic codes enforced.

For more details about the Encinitas Holiday Parade, visit EncinitasParksandRec.com.