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Delta Dental Dickens of a Christmas December 5, 12, 19 - 2025

The Roanoke Valley's largest holiday celebration, Delta Dental Dickens of a Christmas, returns for its 43rd year, taking place on the first three Friday nights in December.


Night 1 - December 5, 6pm - 10pm

Featuring The City of Roanoke Christmas Tree Lighting

The Christmas Tree Lighting takes place on Salem Avenue in the Plaza behind the Market Building. The ceremony begins at 5:30 pm with the tree lighting at 6:20pm and will include live stage performances.

Night 2 - December 12, 6pm - 10pm

Featuring The City of Roanoke Christmas Parade

The parade begins on Jefferson Street at Elm Avenue, turns onto Campbell Avenue, goes past Market Square, and ends at Williamson Road. This year’s parade will start at 6:30pm.

The parade is rain or shine!

Parade Application

Night 3 - December 19, 6pm - 10pm

Featuring the Roanoke Valley SPCA Pet Costume Contest   

The beloved Roanoke Valley SPCA Pet Costume Contest returns, taking place on Salem Avenue at the Plaza behind the Market Building. Pet owners may start registering their pets at 5:30pm the night of the event. The contest begins at 6:30pm.

Categories: Best Holiday Theme, Crowd Favorite, Most Creative, Funniest Costume, and Best Smile


More information coming soon! 

Want to be a vendor? Complete the application and return to Tyler Mundy. 

Vendor Application


The Elf on the Shelf® Adventure

We’re excited to bring back The Elf on the Shelf® Adventure sponsored by Gentry Locke again this year! You can come on a fun scavenger hunt and find all of the Scout Elves hiding in downtown stores.

Learn more


Thank you to these great sponsors: