This week Chula Vista Mayor John McCann announced the return of the Starlight Parade and Festival after a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Third Avenue will set the stage between H and E streets on Dec. 3 with the Starlight Festival kicking off at 3 p.m., the 25-foot-tall Christmas tree lighting ceremony at 5:45 p.m., and the Starlight Parade beginning at 6 p.m. The parade and festival is a joint event organized between the City of Chula Vista and the Downtown Chula Vista Association.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to be working with the City of Chula Vista to welcome back the Starlight Parade,” said Dominic Li Mandri, district manager of the Downtown Chula Vista Association. “The Parade serves as an incredible way to bring the community together and celebrate the holiday season. After halting operations during the pandemic, we’re ready to bring back more of the fun, festive events that Downtown Chula Vista is known for. I can’t wait to see everyone rejoin the festivities and enjoy the magic of the holidays.”
McCann said as mayor, he is bringing back the Starlight Parade.
“It is a tremendous Chula Vista event. It is fun for all ages, and we are looking forward to having it return on Dec. 3 in downtown Chula Vista on Third Avenue,” he said. “It is one of the largest nighttime parade and festival in the United States. It begins with a tree lighting. We have more than 100 entries in the parade. Car clubs, community groups join in the parade, and it is fun for families and everyone.”
McCann said this festival is a wonderful Christmastime/holiday celebration that everyone can enjoy together.
“We have children’s events so they can play. They can see Santa. And this is really a great opportunity for everybody to have fun,” he said. “We want everyone that is interested in participating to go to the website and put in an application. It is an exciting event.”
Before the parade, attendees can enjoy festivities such as the Holiday Market, rides on the Chula Vista Express and free family photos with Santa beginning at 3 p.m., while enjoying live music from the stage at Memorial Park. The Holiday Market, curated by the Downtown Chula Vista Market, provides an opportunity to shop from local artisanal vendors for holiday gifts and treats.
The Starlight Parade & Festival is sponsored with the help of the community and is looking for both sponsors and parade participants to “debut their own magical float.”
For more information, visit www.starlightparade.com.
