The City of Hickory is all set to begin its holiday festivities with the much-anticipated Lowes Foods Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting. Set for Friday, Nov. 21, the event promises to bring a surge of festive cheer to downtown Hickory, as noted in a recent announcement on the city’s website. Lowes Foods has held the reins as the event's steadfast sponsor since its inception.
Featuring a special tribute by the Fallen Heroes ministry, the event will honor North Carolina’s fallen soldiers, starting at 5:45 p.m. followed immediately by the parade as reported by the city. Selected as this year’s grand marshal is Hickory Football Club (Hickory FC), the town's celebrated semi-professional soccer team that recently won the 2025 NPSL National Championship.
During the event, the parking deck on First Avenue NW will serve as a stand where parade entries will be announced. Judging will take place by a committee of community leaders and volunteers - they will hand out awards to the top three participants across five categories including Schools, Churches, Civic Groups, Small and Large Businesses.
Participants and onlookers alike will be treated as the event culminates with Santa Claus lighting the downtown Christmas tree. The festive atmosphere will be further elevated by musical performances from the Hickory Music Factory until 8:30 p.m. When Santa departs for the North Pole, those in attendance can immerse themselves in holiday magic entering a snow globe, sponsored by MBA Roofing, to capture memories in photographs.
The celebrations will span various attractions such as the Newton Depot Christmas Layout presenting an enchanting display of trains and a moving trolley on The Sails on the Square Stage. For those braving the November chill, Jeff Kincaid Insurance Group will be providing complimentary hot chocolate under The Sails on the Square.
To make the event a prime opportunity for local shopping, downtown businesses plan to stay open late, flaunting a variety of specials. As reported by the city’s website, the parade will traverse a specified route through downtown Hickory, and attendees can refer to an interactive map online for detailed information on road closures and parking restrictions.
