Thousands are expected to flock downtown for Magic on Main Street on Sunday, Nov. 30, 2025, and the City of Penticton is sharing important reminders to help everyone plan ahead.
This year’s light-up reveal will include a visit from Santa Claus plus the festive favourites including the 180-foot light tunnel, the giant ‘light brite’ feature and more surprises.
Event highlights
- Santa Claus Parade: Starts at 4:45 p.m. with dozens of festive floats.
- Light-Up ceremony: Join us at Gyro Park at 6 p.m. for the big moment.
- Travel tips: Expect road closures and heavy foot traffic downtown; make your visit easier by using the free transit shuttle service.
Free Park ‘n’ Ride shuttle
Take advantage of the free Park ‘n’ Ride shuttle from Cherry Lane Shopping Centre. Park, shop and ride downtown hassle-free.
- Service hours: Continuous loop every 15 minutes from 4 p.m. to 7:20 p.m.
- Stops:
- Cherry Lane Shopping Centre (on Atkinson Street, north of Warren Avenue)
- Martin Street at Wade Avenue
- Gyro Park (Martin Street behind the park, near Lakeshore Drive)
For transit details, visit bctransit.com or phone 1-844-442-2212.
Road closures
The downtown section of Main Street, between Eckhardt Avenue and Lakeshore Drive, will face road closures starting at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 30. Drivers are asked to plan ahead and move their vehicles from the street in that area by 2:30 p.m. to ensure the route is clear for floats. The sections will reopen on a rolling basis, with the entire stretch open again by 8 p.m.
Floats taking part in the parade will stage in the Penticton High School parking lot, so anyone travelling in the area should be aware that there will be slow-moving vehicles and traffic control personnel on Eckhardt Avenue.
Enter a float into the Santa Claus Parade
Get your applications in quick! The deadline to apply is Nov. 21, 2025. Find details and forms at penticton.ca/holidaymagic.
A Sprinkle of Magic – Saturday, Nov. 29
Kick off the holiday fun early with A Sprinkle of Magic, presented by the Downtown Penticton Association. This event will take place from 12 noon until 4 p.m., with festive activities, live music, photos with Santa and opportunities to get a jump on your holiday shopping. For more information, visit downtownpenticton.org. Reminder: Park for two hours free downtown on Fridays and Saturdays starting Nov. 28 (Sundays always free).