Christmas Parade, Hartford

Bring the family downtown for the 40th annual "Hart of Hartford" Christmas Parade—a festive afternoon featuring a genuine 1913 steam locomotive pulling Santa and Mrs. Claus in a caboose. Kids can visit with Santa before the parade steps off, snap a photo, and drop a letter in his mailbox. The Slinger High School Marching Band will perform, and there's plenty of holiday cheer throughout the downtown area. Best of all, admission is completely free thanks to generous event sponsors. This celebration is part of a full day of family activities in Hartford, so plan to stay and explore. You'll find the annual Lions Club pancake breakfast, a women's craft expo, and holiday shopping at downtown businesses—perfect for making a complete holiday outing. Whether your kids are enchanted by the sight of a historic steam train or excited to catch a glimpse of Santa, this small-town parade offers genuine, unpretentious holiday fun for families of all ages.