City of Gainesville announces fourth annual A Very GNV Holiday Parade

Press release from the City of Gainesville

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Planning is underway for the fourth annual A Very GNV Holiday Parade, set for Saturday, Dec. 5, 2026. The popular event will once again bring music, color, and celebration to downtown Gainesville beginning at noon, followed by a holiday dance party at Bo Diddley Plaza and the tree lighting at City Hall Plaza.

Since its debut in 2023, the parade has grown into a signature seasonal tradition of floats, dance troupes, school bands, and faith-based and civic organizations. The family-friendly event draws thousands of spectators to University Avenue, where volunteers and community groups bring holiday cheer to life.

Gainesville City Commissioner Cynthia Moore Chestnut, who prioritized the need for a holiday parade and has been its biggest champion, highlighted the event’s role in building relationships and creating shared memories.

“This parade is a special tradition that brings our community together during the holiday season,” said Commissioner Chestnut. “It reflects the spirit of Gainesville, with families, students, churches, schools, and businesses coming together to celebrate. Year after year, it gives our community an opportunity to share in the holiday spirit and showcase the people and organizations that make Gainesville unique.”

The procession will start at noon, moving from W. University Avenue and 6th Street and traveling approximately one mile to the Alachua County Public Schools Administration Building at 620 E. University Avenue. Additional details about the event are available online.

In addition to its community impact, the parade provides a timely boost for downtown merchants, restaurants, and local service providers, bringing higher levels of foot traffic and exposure as the holiday season gets underway.

The official hashtag of A Very GNV (GEE-en-vee) Holiday Parade is #GNVholidayparade. Neighbors are invited to tag the City when posting photos online, using @GainesvilleFL on Facebook; @gainesvillefla on Instagram; and @Gainesvillegov on X (formerly Twitter).

The parade will be livestreamed on the City’s Facebook page. It will be recorded for replay on Community 12TV, and available on demand after the event on GNV TV through Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices.