The Apex Rotary Christmas Parade is the only nighttime holiday parade in Wake County — a beloved community tradition held each year in downtown Apex. Expect festive floats, marching bands, community groups, seasonal lights — and a warmly festive atmosphere for families and friends alike.
The 2025 parade starts at 5 p.m. at Ambergate Station/The Peakway, then winds down Salem Street and ends near Moore Street.
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Can’t make it in person? No problem — watch the parade live everywhere you stream WRAL, and enjoy the holiday magic wherever you are.
Bleachers or bring your own chair to the Apex parade
Streets will be clearly marked along North Salem Street between Chatham and Center streets to indicate where chairs can be placed. Chairs can start being placed after 10 p.m. on Friday. Chairs that do not meet these guidelines will be relocated to the Apex Police Department (205 Saunders St.) for pickup.
Apex Fire Station 1 will be a designated area for those with accessibility concerns to watch the parade. The section will be marked with cones and signage and will be monitored by town staff.
New for 2025: Two sections of bleachers will be placed in front of the Apex Fire Station 1 and available for the public to use. This is first come, first serve. No standing is permitted on the bleachers.
Downtown Apex roads closed. Here's how to park to see the parade
Accessible Parking: A limited number of parking spaces will be available behind Apex Fire Station 1 for those with an accessible/handicap parking pass. Spaces will be first come, first serve.
Road Closures: Salem Street from Apex Peakway to Williams Street (Hwy 55) will be closed on Saturday 1 pm to around 8 pm. Other street closures include Apex Peakway from Magnolia Blossom Lane to Laura Duncan Road, Hunter Street from Pate Street to Mason Street, Center Street between Mason Street and Salem Street, Chatham Street from Jones Street to Elm Street, and W Moore Street.
Available Parking Options: Public parking is available in the Saunders Lot (behind the Tobacco Mule Exchange and across from the Apex Police Department). View the downtown parking map for other walkable parking locations.
Restricted Parking Areas: Parking is unavailable / limited along Salem Street, Hunter Street, Center Street, Chatham Street, and Seaboard Street.
GoApex: Parade attendees can use GoApex to reach Salem Street with ease. GoApex Route 1 will operate with an alternate route from 1 pm to 10 pm. Click here to view detour information
The Apex parade proceeds rain or shine
This event is a rain-or-shine event. Expect cloudy skies and not as cold, but still chilly, with a slight chance for some spotty rain. The sun will set around the time the parade begins (5 p.m.) Winds will be light at 5 mph.
