The Bend Christmas Parade is a cherished celebration of everything that makes our community special — more than 40 years of creativity, togetherness, and the joy of the season. Generations of volunteers, families, and local organizations have come together to fill downtown Bend with lights, music, and holiday cheer, creating memories that last far beyond the season.
This year, we proudly welcome R.L. Garrigus as our Grand Marshal. R.L. has been the familiar, joyful voice announcing the Bend Christmas Parade for many years and is an icon in Central Oregon broadcasting. With over 45 years in news, 400,000 newscasts, and countless local, state, and national awards—including induction into the Oregon Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame—R.L.’s impact on our community is immeasurable. We are thrilled to celebrate him this year.
Spectators are encouraged to line the route and enjoy the festive sights and sounds of this year’s parade. The parade will depart from Harmon Boulevard, travel down Newport Avenue, continue along Wall Street, then turn onto Franklin Avenue, finishing on Riverside in Drake Park just before the bridge. There are many great viewing spots along the way for families and friends to gather.
Keep an eye out for school marching bands, festive animals, creative floats, and whimsical characters bringing holiday cheer all along the route. Come early, dress warm, and join the community in celebrating the magic of the season!This year, Cascade Relays Foundation, a local nonprofit dedicated to giving back to and uplifting our community, is honored to help carry this beloved tradition forward. We’re grateful to support the incredible volunteers who make it happen each year and excited to see this treasured event continue to grow — a joyful reflection of the spirit we all share right here at home.
Now Accepting 2025 Parade Applications!
Deadline to enter: December 1, 2025
Parade Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025
Theme: A Storybook Christmas
Get ready to step into a world of wonder — this year’s parade theme brings your favorite holiday tales to life! From The Nutcracker to Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and A Christmas Carol, this year’s theme invites you to bring beloved stories from page to parade.
Now’s the time to get creative and anyone can enter! Dream up your float design, gather your friends, and bring a classic Christmas story to the streets of Bend. Whether you’re building a snowy North Pole scene or dancing sugar plum fairies, we can’t wait to see your imagination shine.
Join the parade and be part of Central Oregon’s most festive holiday tradition!
👉 Entry Application & Information
Kick Off Parade Day with the Mistletoe Miler!
December 6, 2025 @ 9:30am
Starting and Finishing at Bend Brewing Company
Kick off the holidays with Bend’s newest festive tradition — the Mistletoe Miler! Join Cascade Relays for a 3-mile fun run/walk along the beautiful Deschutes River Trail, starting and finishing at Bend Brewing Company. Expect festive photo ops, mistletoe moments, holiday cheer, and plenty of surprises along the way!
This untimed, all-ages event is all about joy, community, and creativity — so don your silliest sweater, jingle bells, or Santa suit, and celebrate the season in style. When you cross the finishline, stick around downtown to enjoy the Bend Christmas Parade at noon — the celebration continues right where you are!
Included with Registration:
- Custom Race Bib – your official Mistletoe Miler keepsake
- Limited-Edition Holiday Scarf (first 500 registrants) – perfect for staying cozy during the event and parade
- $2 off any drink at Bend Brewing
- Entry into Costume & Photo Contests – prizes for standout festive attire and creativity
- Access to Themed Photo Stops and “Mistletoe Moments” along the Deschutes River Trail
- Festive Atmosphere & On-Course Surprises – music, cheer, and holiday fun throughout the route
‘Sign up early to snag your custom scarf and join Bend’s most joyful morning of the season! Adults (18 yr and over) $45, Youth (2-17 yrs) $25. Stroller youth are free.
cascaderelays.com • cascaderelays.com/events/mistletoe-miler
