WinterFest Parade of Lights And Holiday Festival

The brightest night in Stafford returns to ring in the holiday season on Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. (weather date December 15). A festive hometown tradition, WinterFest features live performances, visits with Santa, a community bonfire, the Parade of Lights, hundreds of luminaries throughout Main Street, and more!

Special Events Schedule

​Museum 

Open House - 3:00pm - 7:00pm

Explore two-floors of Stafford’s rich heritage and connect to our local history! The Museum’s little gift shop will be open, give the gift of history this season! 

Live Nativity  - 3:00pm 

Live Nativity Performance with real actors and animals will take place on the lawn of the First United Methodist Church at 8 Church Street. 

Hyde Park Wagon Rides - 3:00pm - 4:45pm & 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Bundle up and take a festive wagon ride! Truly a charming and memorable experience, passengers should meet near the Historical Society (5 Spring Street). Rides will be offered before and after the parade, and on a first come, first serve basis and may vary based on road closure schedule.

Local Shopping

In addition to favorite bricks-and-mortars, browse a selection pop-up vendors and community organizations in Haymarket Common, starting at 3:00pm. The goal of the market is to support a community of makers, entrepreneurs, artists, and community groups who are passionate about sharing their craft or local initiative. The Application form to be a Vendor will be open until December 1, 2024. (Click here to apply)

Parade of Lights - 5:00pm

Step-off at 5:00pm from Olympic Circle, down Main Street to Town Hall, with entrants lighted for evening viewing. Viewing is everywhere between Olympic Circle and Town Hall! 2024 Parade registration opens November 4.

Caroling, Mix + Mingle

SHS Band & Color Guard performance (apx. 4:45PM). Caroling w/ SHS Choir (apx. 5:45PM)! All in Haymarket Common (31 Main Street)

Letters to Santa

We’ve made special arrangements with the North Pole! Children may drop their letters to Santa in the big red mailbox located outside the Police Station. Make sure to include the senders first/last name and return mailing address on each letter so Santa can mail a response!