This year’s kickoff of the holiday season is Friday, Nov. 21, with music starting at 5:30 p.m.

Mayor Rick Noel, accompanied by his wife Gayle, light the city’s Christmas tree on the traffic circle at 6 p.m.

“For 25 years, this parade has brought families, neighbors and visitors together for an evening that truly feels magical,” said Zach King, executive director of the Columbiana Area Chamber of Commerce. “We’re proud to mark this silver anniversary and invite everyone to be part of a night that showcases the spirit and heart of Columbiana.”

The parade also will feature longtime community, business and school supporter Kenny Wilson as grand marshal, honoring his decades of commitment to Columbiana.

Mrs. Claus will follow directly behind the grand marshal, as tradition, and Santa will close the parade riding aboard a Columbiana city fire truck.

Parade lineup takes place on North Middle Street. All participants must enter from Stanton Avenue, as other cross streets will be closed. Those wishing to be considered for one of the parade’s 12 awards should arrive by 4:30 p.m., with judging scheduled for 5 p.m.

The awards include Best of Parade, Best Float, the Clark W. Griswold Award, Best Marching Band, Kids Choice and Best Dressed Animal. Additional honors are Best Old Fire Truck, Best New Fire Truck, Best Car, Best Church Float, the Elf Award and the Fruit Cake Award.

The parade steps off at 6 p.m. and will proceed rain or shine.

Local businesses, organizations and community groups are invited to join the parade. Participating is a meaningful way to showcase your group and celebrate the strength and pride of the community. Register at www.columbianachamber.com/etn/columbiana-christmas-parade/

For safety reasons, the throwing of candy or other items from vehicles or floats is prohibited as is the discharge of weapons by rifle or drill teams during the event. (NOTE: However, items may be distributed by adults walking along the parade route.)

No unit also is allowed to have a person in costume depicting Santa Claus in an effort to not confuse children by having more than one.

The parade route will follow North Middle Street to West Salem Street, then North Main Street, continue through the circle and end on Pittsburgh Street, where units will disperse.

The holiday festivities continue throughout the weekend with the Merry Market on Main from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, in downtown Columbiana.

Shop your favorite brick-and-mortars, where you can enjoy exclusive sales, festive promotions, and cozy holiday charm.

Enjoy horse and carriage rides through America’s favorite Hallmark town, making magical memories.

Local food trucks, outdoor vendors and artisans will line downtown with all sorts of deliciousness and one-of-a-kind holiday treasures.

All proceeds from Merry Market on Main will be donated to Toys for Tots, helping bring joy and holiday magic to local children in need.

City residents also can still save half on their Joy of Christmas Light Show season passes. Sponsored by the Columbiana Area Tourism Bureau, Columbiana City residents who bring the lower portion of their water bill when purchasing a 2025 season pass will save 50 percent off the $40 price.

For more information, visit www.tourcolumbianaohio.org