Washington Avenue in downtown Detroit Lakes will be closed today, Monday, Dec. 1, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. to make way for Santa’s Grand Parade of Lights. According to the Detroit Lakes Public Works Department, the closure will run from Frazee Street to Front Street, with several nearby intersections also blocked off to keep the parade route clear. Drivers should expect closures at Frazee Street and Lake Avenue, Washington Avenue and Frazee Street, Holmes Street and Washington Avenue, as well as Front Street and Washington Avenue. Willow Street and Lake Avenue will stay open for anyone needing to move around the area.
This year’s Parade of Lights marks the official start of the holiday shopping season in Detroit Lakes, and organizers say it will be one of the biggest the community has ever hosted. More than 50 floats are signed up, bringing together local businesses, community groups, and families who come out to enjoy the magic of the season. Detroit Lakes Chamber of Commerce President Jackie Buboltz earlier noted that the event could be the largest yet, with 54 floats ready to roll.
The parade will be led by Detroit Lakes Police Chief Steven Todd in his squad car. Behind him, the Lake Region Veterans Color Guard will march proudly before the arrival of the main attraction — Santa Claus himself. As always, Santa is expected to be the highlight of the night, especially for younger parade-goers eagerly waiting to catch a glimpse of him.
While the parade is the star of the evening, the celebration actually begins a bit earlier. The Detroit Lakes Public Library will hold a free holiday open house from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Visitors can enjoy seasonal activities, refreshments, and a look at holiday traditions from different cultures around the world. The event is open to all ages and offers a warm, festive atmosphere ahead of the evening’s outdoor activities.
At 5:15 p.m., the towering pine tree on the library lawn will be lit for the season. Once illuminated, the tree becomes a glowing symbol of the winter holidays and a favorite spot for families to take photos before heading over to the parade route. Many residents make this tree-lighting ceremony part of their annual tradition.
The Parade of Lights officially begins at 5:30 p.m. It will travel past the library along Frazee Street before turning north onto Washington Avenue. From there, floats will make their way past the Washington Square Mall before finishing near the Front Street intersection. Because of the high number of entries this year, the parade is expected to last a little longer than usual, giving the community extra time to enjoy the bright displays and festive music.
After the parade wraps up, the celebration continues at City Park with the annual Light Up the Park ceremony at 6:30 p.m. Project 412 has invited the community to gather as the park comes alive with holiday lights. Santa Claus will also be there to help switch on the display, making it a fun ending to an already festive evening. The event provides families with one more chance to take in the magic, enjoy the decorations, and fully welcome the start of the holiday season in Detroit Lakes.
Together, these activities — the open house, the tree lighting, the parade, and the park ceremony — create a full day of celebration for residents and visitors. It’s a time for the community to come together, enjoy traditions old and new, and share the warmth and excitement that come with the beginning of the holiday season.
