Planning is underway for the fourth annual “A Very GNV Holiday Parade,” set for Saturday, Dec. 5, in downtown Gainesville.
According to a city of Gainesville release, the family-friendly celebration will begin at noon with the parade, followed by a holiday dance party at Bo Diddley Plaza and a tree-lighting ceremony at City Hall Plaza.
Since its debut in 2023, the parade has grown into a seasonal tradition featuring floats, dance troupes, school bands and faith-based and civic organizations. The event draws thousands of spectators to University Avenue as volunteers and community groups celebrate the holiday season.
Gainesville City Commissioner Cynthia Chestnut, who prioritized the need for a holiday parade and has been a longtime champion of the event, said the celebration helps build relationships and create shared memories.
“This parade is a special tradition that brings our community together during the holiday season,” Chestnut said in the release. “It reflects the spirit of Gainesville, with families, students, churches, schools and businesses coming together to celebrate. Year after year, it gives our community an opportunity to share in the holiday spirit and showcase the people and organizations that make Gainesville unique.”
The parade will begin at noon at W. University Avenue and Sixth Street and travel approximately one mile before ending at the Alachua County Public Schools Administration Building, 620 E. University Ave.
The parade is also expected to provide a boost for downtown merchants, restaurants and local service providers by bringing increased foot traffic and exposure as the holiday shopping season begins.
Additional event details are available online.
The official hashtag is #GNVholidayparade. Community members are encouraged to tag the city when sharing photos online using @GainesvilleFL on Facebook; @gainesvillefla on Instagram; and @Gainesvillegov on X (formerly Twitter).
The parade will be livestreamed on the city’s Facebook page. It will also be recorded for replay on Community 12TV and made available on demand after the event through GNV TV on Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices.