Goshen Light Parade | November First Fridays

The glow of the holiday season will shine brighter than ever as the beloved Goshen Light Parade returns to Downtown Goshen for November First Fridays!

The Light Parade—Friday, November 7 from 5 to 9 p.m.—brings the entire Elkhart County community, and beyond, together with friends and family of all ages to celebrate the illuminated spirit of the holiday season.

Comfort foods, soups and warm drinks, and other hearty, cold-night options are featured at downtown eateries, and member merchants spotlight holiday items for First Friday shoppers. Starting at 7:30 p.m., various Elkhart County businesses, schools, nonprofit organizations, clubs, entertainers, and civic groups power up a headlining array of lighted floats and presentations to create a breathtaking procession along Main Street.

The Light Parade has grown into one of our most anticipated events, and so many local organizations and residents are excited to be a part of it. Come out on Nov. 7 for the Goshen Light Parade, and enjoy the best that the community has to offer while having fun and making lasting memories with friends and family!

The ever popular Merry Mixer
The Goshen Parks float in the parade
Even Santa has been known to make a parade appearance

Food and festivities

In addition to Downtown Goshen’s unique assortment of eateries and dining establishments, food trucks make a return appearance at the Light Parade and offer a wide selection of warm and delicious foods to keep revelers warm and toasty.

Participating businesses present holiday-themed storefront light displays and offer specials, in-store events, and activities for the young and young at heart. 

Light Parade info AND a call for entries!

The Light Parade starts at 7:30 p.m. at the intersection of 5th and Clinton Streets. The Parade proceeds West to Main Street, then South on Main to Jefferson Street. The parade turns East on Jefferson and ends at 5th Street.

When finding spots to enjoy the parade, we kindly ask that you NOT block intersections or the Police Station exits.

Area businesses, nonprofit organizations, clubs, schools, and groups that are interested in registering for the Light Parade are asked to submit entries by Oct. 22. To review the Light Parade rules and register for the event, applicants can visit the Light Parade registration page.

A community effort

There are additional ways to get involved with the First Fridays Light Parade. Downtown Goshen, Inc. events operate with the crucial support of many sponsors and volunteers, and there is still time for organizations and community members to play a vital role in bringing the Parade to life.

Those interested in sponsorship opportunities can visit the First Fridays sponsor page for more information. Anyone over the age of 18 can help with the parade by applying to become a volunteer.

The Light Parade is free and open to the public. Find details on the event page. 

ABOUT

Downtown Goshen, Inc. exists to support the growth and vibrancy of Goshen’s commercial core.

Excited kids!

The Goshen Light Parade, Friday, November 7 from 5 to 9 p.m., with the parade starting promptly at 7:30 p.m.The Light Parade brings the Elkhart County community together to celebrate the spirit of the holidays with a brilliant procession of lighted floats along Main Street. The event also presents food trucks and spotlights Downtown Goshen dining and shopping options. Participating businesses also offer in-store events and activities for the young and young at heart.