Fire, Police Departments Spread Holiday Cheer at Parade

Tens of thousands of people gathered in downtown Raleigh on Saturday to see the 81st annual Raleigh Christmas Parade. Raleigh fire and police departments made sure they brought holiday cheer to the crowds, along with ensuring their safety.

The parade featured music, floats, big smiles – and, at the end, Santa Claus. The parade started at Hillsborough Street and Glenwood Avenue and ended at the Raleigh Convention Center.

Raleigh Police Department continued its annual tradition of leading the parade with various units and helping keep the event safe and enjoyable for everyone. Officers were stationed along the route, directing traffic, blocking roadways, and patrolling on foot and bicycle, to ensure safety.

Raleigh Fire participated with fire trucks and firefighters, along with Sparky the Fire Dog. Wake County EMS rounded up first responder presence at the event.  

The 2025 ABC11 Crossroads Ford Raleigh Christmas Parade was presented by Shop Local Raleigh. See photos below of RPD and RFD at the parade. Also, check out some timely tips from RPD.