Ring in the holidays downtown: Olympia’s Jinglebell Parade returns Nov. 29

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The LoveOly Jinglebell Parade is returning to Downtown Olympia on Sunday, Nov. 29, 2026, bringing back a beloved holiday tradition as part of the Olympia Downtown Alliance’s month-long Downtown for the Holidays celebration.

For years, the parade helped mark the beginning of the holiday season in Olympia, filling downtown streets with music, lights, creativity, and community spirit. 

This year, the Olympia Downtown Alliance is bringing the tradition back with a renewed invitation for the entire community to take part, whether you’re decorating a float, marching with a school group, bringing the kids downtown to watch, or simply gathering with friends and neighbors to enjoy the magic.

With support from Presenting Sponsor Little Creek Casino Resort, and additional support from Columbia Bank and Puget Sound Energy, the 2026 LoveOly Jinglebell Parade is ready to shine.

“We’re thrilled to help bring the Jinglebell Parade back to life in downtown Olympia,” said Little Creek Chief Executive Officer Jef Bauer. “Traditions like this give families and friends a chance to come together, make memories, and create moments they’ll carry with them for years to come. Little Creek Casino Resort is proud to help make this beloved tradition possible for a new generation and to be part of a celebration that reflects the creativity, generosity, and holiday spirit of the Olympia community.”

Local businesses, schools, nonprofits, community organizations, families, performers, civic groups and neighborhood groups are invited to join the parade. Participants can get creative with decorated vehicles, costumes, signs, music, performances, walking groups and more.

Groups interested in participating should register by Nov. 9, 2026 at tinyurl.com/jinglebellparade2026

The Olympia Downtown Association has a full day of events scheduled for Nov. 29: 

  • 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., LoveOly Winterfest: 5th Avenue & Washington Street: Browse a local artisan market, let the kids dive into free activities, enjoy live, local entertainment, and warm up with free hot cocoa and coffee while supplies last. Take a free holiday photo with Santa at 222 Market and hear a seasonal classic at our storytelling sessions at the Olympia Ballroom. Take your time, explore downtown, and get into the holiday spirit before the parade begins.
  • 2 to 3 p.m., Jinglebell Parade, downtown Olympia: The LoveOly Jinglebell Parade travels from Cherry Street toward Sylvester Park, filling downtown with music, lights, creativity, and holiday cheer. Find a spot along Legion Way for a great view of the action.
  • 4:30 p.m., Sylvester Park Tree Lighting, at Sylvester Park: Follow the holiday glow to Sylvester Park for the day’s grand finale. Gather with fellow holiday revelers as the community counts down to the lighting of the magnificent holiday tree, made possible through the support of the Washington State Department of Enterprise Services.