Mark Your Calendars: Dates Set for 2026 Golden Strip and Upstate Christmas Parades

While autumn leaves are still falling, it is never too early to mark your calendar for a classic hometown Christmas parade.

Area organizers and local businesses, including Cheeky Tees, LLC, have released the official lineup for the upcoming 2026 Golden Strip holiday parade season, setting dates for Fountain Inn, Mauldin, Simpsonville, and nearby Downtown Greenville as festivities kick off in early December.

The traditional processions draw thousands of families, civic organizations, marching bands, and local floats along Main Street corridors throughout the region, culminating with an appearance by Santa Claus.

2026 Holiday Parade Schedule

Residents looking to plan their festive weekends and prime sidewalk-watching spots can mark the following dates and times:

• Fountain Inn Christmas Parade: Wednesday, December 2, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.

• Mauldin Christmas Parade: Saturday, December 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

• Downtown Greenville Christmas Parade: Saturday, December 5, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.

• Simpsonville Christmas Parade: Sunday, December 6, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.

With Mauldin and Greenville parades falling on the same Saturday, community members will have an opportunity to take in an afternoon community parade before heading up to the evening lights of downtown Greenville.

More logistical details, parade routes, and entry registration deadlines for marching units and floats will be announced by each municipality as the holiday season approaches.