Christmas Holiday Parade

Updated: September 16, 2020

For 64 years, The Jacksonville Onslow Chamber of Commerce Christmas Holiday Parade has kicked off the holiday season in Onslow County, making it one of Eastern North Carolina’s most beloved events. However after consultation with city leaders and the Chamber’s Parade Committee it was decided not to hold the parade this year because the safety of the spectators, participants and volunteers is of the upmost importance to the chamber and the city of Jacksonville. Karen Salefsky the Chamber’s Parade Committee Chair since 1985 states, “This was not an easy decision. We waited as long as we possibly could, considering the overall safety of all participants and spectators, before deciding to cancel this signature event of the Chamber that means so much to our region. However, this does not mean that we will not be celebrating the Christmas Holiday season in style for 2020. We have just begun discussions about having a Holiday Decorating Contest for area businesses, that would provide an opportunity for all of our Chamber members to showcase their best and “Deck the Halls” with a very special display of their Christmas Holiday spirit. We envision collecting nominations similar to how the Jacksonville Environmental and Appearance Advisory Committee does for their Holiday Home Decorating Contest and would invite residents to vote for their favorite. As we finalize the details of the contest they will be announced.”