Turkey Day is nearly here, and thousands are expected to line the streets for the 2025 Thanksgiving Eve Parade in uptown Charlotte.
The 79th annual event kicks off Wednesday, Nov. 26, at 5:30 p.m. and will air live on WCCB Charlotte from 6-8 p.m., according to the event website.
If you miss it, no worries. Encore presentations of the event will run on Thursday, Nov. 27 at 5 a.m., 7 a.m. and 8 p.m., the station said.
As in years past, revelers can expect to see larger-than-life floats, more than a dozen marching bands, giant cold-air balloons, performers and much more. Vendors will also sell warm drinks, hot dogs and novelties as participants march along the parade route.
“Get ready for an unforgettable night at the Novant Health Thanksgiving Eve Parade,” the event website says. Here’s what to know before you go:
Thanksgiving Eve Parade route
This year’s parade starts at the intersection of Tryon and 9th Streets and ends at Good Samaritan Way.
The event is free to all, although VIP seating can be purchased ahead of time, according to the event website. Revelers who don’t buy a VIP seat can watch the parade from 9th Street to Brooklyn Village Avenue.
Designated wheelchair/ADA seating won’t be available along the parade route, so organizers suggest arriving early (around 4 p.m.) to secure a spot up front.
Road closures
The Charlotte Department of Transportation said the following roads will be closed for the parade:
Monday, Nov. 24 (starting at 6 p.m.)
- Tryon Street between Brooklyn Village Avenue and Good Samaritan Way
Tuesday, Nov. 25 (starting at 10 p.m.)
- Tryon Street between 9th Street and 11th Street
- 9th Street between College Street and Church Street
- 10th Street between Church Street and Tryon Street
- Montfort Point between Tryon Street and College Street
Wednesday, Nov. 26 (starting at 4 p.m.)
- Tryon Street between College Street and Church Street
- All cross streets along Tryon Street between College Street and Church Street
All roadways will reopen at 11:59 p.m. on Nov. 26, city officials said.
Parking and public transportation options
The big event is expected to draw about 50,000 spectators, city officials said, so arriving as early is your best bet at snagging a good seat. Public parking is available in several lots and garages near the parade route and can be booked ahead of time at parkme.com.
If you want to avoid traffic, hop on the light rail to one of three stations along the route:
Tanasia Kenney
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