By John Todd | Rio Linda Online
Oct. 7, 2026
Our hometown holiday tradition is getting ready to shine again. The 11th annual RLE Hometown Christmas Light Parade will roll down M Street on Saturday, Dec. 12, bringing illuminated floats, holiday cheer and neighbors together for an evening celebrating Rio Linda and Elverta.
The parade begins at 6 p.m. at West Second and M streets, travels east along M Street and ends at Curved Bridge Road.
Entries are now open to businesses, schools, organizations, clubs, families, neighborhood groups and equestrians. Whether your group has participated for years or is planning its first entry, organizers are inviting our community to help fill the route with lights and Christmas spirit.
Registration and information are available at RLEChristmasParade.com.
Plan your evening along M Street
The parade is scheduled to take place rain or shine, although organizers may cancel if severe weather creates a safety risk.
Spectators are encouraged to arrive early to find a viewing spot, bring blankets and hot cocoa for the chilly December evening, and have a camera ready to capture the illuminated floats and family memories.
Whether you are bundled up along the sidewalk or riding on a glowing float, the evening offers a chance to celebrate the season with our neighbors.
Sponsors needed to help light up our town
Organizers are also seeking sponsors and donations to cover the practical needs and festive touches that make the parade possible.
Support is needed for safety barricades, first-, second- and third-place awards, the community Christmas tree, Christmas decorations, light-pole decorations, a giant inflatable snow globe for holiday photos and portable restrooms.
Businesses, organizations, families and groups can sponsor an entire item, contribute toward one or make a donation. Contributions of any size will help keep the hometown tradition going.
The community Christmas tree remains a centerpiece of the celebration, helping turn the heart of Rio Linda into a gathering place for holiday memories.
For our families, the appeal is familiar: children watching glowing floats, neighbors waving to neighbors and M Street becoming a place to celebrate together.
To enter the parade or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, visit RLEChristmasParade.com.
Parade details
- When: Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026, at 6 p.m.
- Route: West Second and M streets, east along M Street to Curved Bridge Road.
- Weather: Rain or shine; cancellation may be necessary if severe conditions threaten safety.
- Viewing tips: Arrive early, bring blankets and hot cocoa, and remember your camera.
- Participate: Entries are open to local businesses, schools, clubs, organizations, families, neighborhood groups and equestrians.
- Support: Sponsorships and donations are being sought for event expenses and holiday decorations.
- Information: RLEChristmasParade.com
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