The Winston-Salem Holiday Parade, officially known as the Winston-Salem Ambassadors Holiday Parade, has a history rooted in the city's community spirit. It occurs the first Saturday in December, and in in 2024, the Mayor recognized every first Saturday in December as Winston-Salem Holiday Parade Day. 

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The Parade began in 1990 when the Winston-Salem Jaycees partnered with local businesses and organizations to create a festive event. After the Jaycees dissolved in 2023, the Winston-Salem Ambassadors, a nonprofit promoting the city, took over the parade's organization and execution.

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HISTORY: 

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1990:
The Winston-Salem Jaycees initiated the holiday parade, aiming to bring cheer to the city through a community event. 

 

2023:
The Winston-Salem Jaycees dissolved due to declining membership. A planned handover of the Parade occurred in 2022 and the Winston-Salem Ambassadors took over fully in 2023.
 
Present:

 

The Winston-Salem Ambassadors took over the parade, continuing the tradition and expanding its representation of different winter holidays. The parade now celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah, Yule, Winter Solstice, and Kwanzaa.