Reston Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting

Reston Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting

The day after Thanksgiving is when a lot of families are looking for something to get out of the house, and Reston Town Center has a good answer. The parade is at 11am and this is the 34th year. It has floats, marching bands, giant balloons and community groups, and then there are holiday activities in the afternoon.

You can come back at night for the tree lighting at 6pm, which is when it gets festive. Reston Town Center also lists a Sip & Stroll from 4:30 to 8pm. Past listings mention Santa and Mrs. Claus arriving by horse-drawn carriage and bells for the crowd to ring, but I would confirm the 2026 lineup. The event page does not list a price, and there are two different end times on it, so double-check the schedule.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Pick one: morning parade or night lighting. The parade is at 11am and the tree lighting is at 6pm. Doing both is a long day for young kids.
• ✓Get a spot early. Parades along Market Street get crowded. Arrive 30 to 45 minutes ahead.
• ✓Dress warm for the evening. Late November nights in Reston are cold, and you will be standing still for the lighting.
• ✓Bring a stroller or carrier. Walking back to the car after dark with a tired kid is easier with a way to carry them.
• ✓Check the schedule the week before. The event page showed a conflict in end times. See restontowncenter.com to confirm.