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Delta Dental Dickens of a Christmas: December 4, 11, 18

The Roanoke Valley's largest holiday celebration, Delta Dental Dickens of a Christmas, returns for its 44th year, taking place on the first three Friday nights in December.


Night 1 - December 4, 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 11, 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 18, 6pm - 10pm

Featuring the Roanoke Valley SPCA Costume Contest and Victorian Holiday Circus

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

NEW! The Victorian Holiday Circus Company brings the magic of the season to life with Victorian-era performers, comedy acts, a daring tightwire walker, skilled unicyclist, and captivating aerialist performances. Catch roaming entertainment throughout the evening from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.

S'mores Station

Head to Salem Avenue behind the City Market Building to roast your marshmallow to golden perfection over a fire pit and warm your hands at the same time. FREE pre-made kits include all of the s'more-making essentials, including chocolate, graham crackers, and a marshmallow. Kits are available 6pm to 9pm while supplies last on Friday, December 18th. 


Vending

Want to be a vendor? Complete the application and return it to Tyler Mundy at tylerm@downtownroanoke.org

Vendor Application

Volunteers

Our nonprofit relies on dedicated volunteers to help make Delta Dental Dickens of a Christmas successful.

Volunteer Sign Up

Parade Participation 

We are now accepting parade participants! Please fill out the form below and return to Tyler Mundy at tylerm@downtownroanoke.org

Parade Application


THANK YOU TO THESE GREAT SPONSORS!