Downtown Parade of Lights tonight in Athens

Several downtown streets will close for tonight’s Downtown Parade of Lights, annual holiday parade that steps off at 7 o’clock. The parade will culminate with the lighting of the Christmas tree that will stand in front of Athens City Hall for the rest of the year. It’s a 20-foot cedar donated by Greg and Cindy Wilborn.

From the Athens-Clarke Co government website…

This year’s theme is “An Art Filled Holiday.”

Athens-Clarke County Unified Government and Athens Downtown Development Authority are proud to present the Downtown Parade of Lights.

The ACC Downtown Parade of Lights is a “rain or shine” event. If safety becomes an issue for participants and spectators due to severe weather, the parade may be cancelled by the event organizer.

Downtown Parking Options

Learn more about downtown parking options.

Click for Map

2023 Downtown Parade of Lights Application

Applications closed promptly on Tuesday, November 7 at 5:00 p.m. Late applications are not accepted.

For more information, please call 706-613-3800 or email paradeoflights@accgov.com

2023 Downtown Parade of Lights Parade Marshal

The 2023 Downtown Parade of Lights Parade Marshall renowned local artist Harold Rittenberry Jr.

Mr. Rittenberry is best known in and around Athens for his majestic and whimsical metal sculptures. His work is iconic, as his imagery represents the joy of art, music, love, and nature in our community.

From the elegant Brooklyn Cemetery gates, benches throughout parks, the Georgia Museum of Art, and UGA campus, his work is unique and authentic.

This long time Athenian has been drawing, cutting, and welding metal for a lifetime. A self-taught artist, now in his 80′s, Rittenberry is a beloved Athens icon.

Thank you Mr. Rittenberry for your beautiful art and for helping us make this “an art filled holiday.”

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