FAQs

The parade is known as the “Mayor’s Christmas Parade” because it was initiated by then-Mayor William Donald Schaefer in 1972 following the discontinuation of the Hochschild-Kohn Toytown Parade. Schaefer approached Tom Kerr, head of the Hampden Business Association, to help organize a new holiday parade for Baltimore.

Although the first parade was modest in size, it was a success and quickly became a beloved Baltimore tradition. Since its founding, the event has continued to carry the Mayor’s name in recognition of Mayor William Donald Schaefer’s role in helping launch and champion the parade in its early years.

Today, while the parade proudly carries the Mayor’s name and receives important support from the City, it is independently organized and operated by a nonprofit volunteer organization dedicated to continuing this community holiday tradition for Baltimore families and visitors.

The Mayor’s Christmas Parade began in 1972 as a new Baltimore holiday tradition created to continue the spirit of the former Hochschild-Kohn Toytown Parade. What started as a modest community event in Hampden has grown into one of Baltimore’s most beloved annual holiday celebrations.

Over the decades, the parade has featured marching bands, elaborate floats, performers, community organizations, local businesses, and special guests while continuing to celebrate Baltimore’s neighborhood pride and holiday spirit. Today, the parade remains a cherished tradition enjoyed by generations of families throughout the region.

The Mayor’s Christmas Parade is organized entirely by dedicated, unpaid community volunteers who work throughout the year to plan, coordinate, and manage the event. Volunteers help oversee parade operations, participant coordination, logistics, fundraising, communications, and day-of-event activities.

Their commitment, generosity, and teamwork help bring this cherished Baltimore holiday tradition to life each year for thousands of families and visitors throughout the region.

To learn more about the people behind the parade, visit our Parade Committee page. If you would like to get involved, visit our Volunteers page.

Yes! The Mayor’s Christmas Parade is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization operated entirely by community volunteers. The organization exists to celebrate Baltimore’s community spirit, support local traditions, and provide a festive holiday experience for families throughout the region.

Because the parade is nonprofit and volunteer-run, donations and sponsorships directly support the event and help ensure the tradition continues for future generations. Contributions may also be tax-deductible as allowed by law.

If you would like to support the parade through volunteering, sponsorship, or a donation, please visit our Supporters or Volunteers pages.

The Mayor’s Christmas Parade is made possible through a combination of contributions from the mayor’s office, sponsorships, donations, and support from local businesses, organizations, and community members. While the City provides important support for the event, much of the parade’s funding depends on generous sponsors and donors who help sustain this Baltimore holiday tradition each year.

The parade’s planning and organization is a collaborative community effort involving volunteers, businesses, community groups, sponsors, and the mayor’s office working together to ensure a successful and festive experience for all.

For more information about supporting the parade, visit our Supporters page.

The Mayor’s Christmas Parade takes place annually in early December in Baltimore’s Hampden neighborhood. The parade traditionally features marching bands, festive floats, performers, community groups, and holiday entertainment for all ages.

This year’s parade date will be announced soon. Please check back and follow us on social media for the latest updates, announcements, and event information.

The parade takes place in Baltimore’s historic Hampden and Medfield neighborhoods along Falls Road, The Avenue, and surrounding streets. The parade route travels through the heart of these vibrant communities, creating a festive atmosphere for residents, visitors, and local businesses throughout the area.

Please see our Parade Route section on the homepage for maps, street closures, and route details.

Yes! The Mayor’s Christmas Parade is free and open to the public. Families, residents, and visitors are invited to enjoy this longstanding Baltimore holiday tradition at no cost.

Community support from sponsors, donors, and volunteers helps keep the parade accessible for everyone to enjoy each year.

Street parking may be available throughout Hampden, Medfield, and surrounding neighborhoods on parade day, but parking can become limited as crowds arrive. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early and consider carpooling, rideshare services, public transportation, or walking when possible.

Please see our Directions to the Parade and Parade Route section on the homepage for parking options.

Yes. The Mayor’s Christmas Parade is planned to take place rain, snow, or cold weather, and the event has only been canceled once in its history due to severe winter weather conditions.

We encourage attendees to dress warmly, check the forecast before arriving, and come prepared for winter conditions. Organizers work hard each year to continue the tradition whenever it is safe to do so.