CARBONDALE – Carbondale Police Chief and Interim City Manager Stan Reno invites everyone to the 33rd Annual Lights Fantastic Parade in downtown Carbondale Saturday at 6 p.m.
The Carbondale Police Department in collaboration with the parade organizers welcomes everyone to participate in the festive and cherished community tradition. The parade begins on South Illinois Avenue at Mill Street and travels north on Illinois Avenue around the Town Square on Jackson and Washington streets. The parade ends on South Washington Street at East Main Street. To ensure the safety and smooth flow of the parade, temporary detours will be implemented.
Carbondale Police Chief and Interim City Manager said, “The Lights Fantastic Parade is a cherished tradition that brings our community together to celebrate the holiday season with joy and unity. This year marks the 33rd annual event, and we’re excited to once again light up downtown Carbondale with creativity and festive spirit. Our Police Department is proud to collaborate with parade organizers to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. We encourage all residents and visitors to join us Saturday to experience this magical evening and we look forward to seeing downtown Carbondale illuminated by the holiday cheer that makes Carbondale so special.”
Road Closures and Detours:
Certain streets along the parade route will be temporarily closed during the event. Motorists are advised to follow the detour signs and directions provided by Carbondale police officers.
Roads in the immediate area of the Mill Street underpass will close at 3 p.m. to allow for parade entry staging. Detours of Main Street, Walnut Street, and Illinois Avenue will begin at 5 p.m. Parade-goers are encouraged to arrive early and avoid traffic congestion. Roads will open promptly after the parade ends at approximately 8 p.m.
Parking Information and Handicapped Parking and Parade Viewing:
Parking for disabled persons who wish to view the parade from a vehicle will be available in the northeast corner of the Town Square Parking Lot at the intersection of East Jackson Street and North Washington Street. There is available parking in all of the lots surrounding the downtown area.
On Street Parking – Courtesy Towing:
The parking spaces along the parade route that are reserved through parking kiosks will be marked as no parking at 3 p.m. No parking signs will be posted at all other parking areas on the parade route. Any vehicle remaining at the aforementioned parking locations or anywhere on the parade route will be towed to the police department visitor lot at 501 South Washington Street starting at 4 p.m. at no cost to the owner.
Shuttle Bus Stops:
Free shuttle rides will be provided to the downtown parade route every 30 minutes between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Shuttles will resume after the parade is over until 8:30 p.m. The west side shuttle pick up will be at the Murdale Shopping Center (in front of the Neighborhood Co-op) with the drop off located at the intersection of West Oak Street and North Illinois Avenue. The east side shuttle pick up will be at the University Mall (north side at the Grand Court entrance) with the drop off near Veteran’s Memorial Plaza located at the intersection of South Washington Street and East Main Street.
Parade Safety Tips:
Spectators are encouraged to arrive early to avoid traffic congestion and to find a safe viewing spot along the parade route.
Keep a safe distance from moving vehicles and follow instructions from Carbondale Police officers and event staff.
Report any suspicious activity to the nearest police officer or call 911.
Enjoy the Carbondale Lights Fantastic Parade!