Kick off the holiday season with one of McMinnville’s most cherished traditions—the Santa Parade & Tree Lighting in historic downtown. Gather with friends, family, and neighbors along Third Street to watch brightly decorated floats, marching bands, and community groups spread holiday cheer. The parade ends with a grand entrance from Santa himself, followed by the lighting of McMinnville’s towering community tree. As the lights sparkle to life, the whole downtown glows with warmth, music, and celebration. It’s the official start of Merry McMinnville—a night filled with joy, nostalgia, and hometown magic.