Chula Vista, December 8, 2025
The 61st Annual Starlight Parade and Festival in Chula Vista brought joy back to the community after a three-year break due to the pandemic. Thousands attended this cherished holiday event, featuring a market with local artisans, a tree lighting ceremony, and a vibrant parade showcasing over 100 participants. Community engagement was a highlight, with local students participating in a T-shirt design contest. The event not only celebrated the holiday spirit but also significantly boosted local tourism and the economy.
Chula Vista Celebrates 61st Starlight Parade and Festival
A Wonderful Return of a Cherished Holiday Tradition Boosts Local Tourism
Chula Vista, California – On December 6, 2025, Chula Vista hosted its 61st Annual Starlight Parade and Festival, marking a vibrant return of this cherished holiday tradition after a three-year hiatus. The event drew thousands of attendees, uniting the community and boosting local tourism.
Event Highlights
- Holiday Market & Festival: Opened at 3:00 PM, featuring local artisans and vendors offering a variety of gifts and treats. Free photos with Santa were available from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, adding to the festive atmosphere.
- Tree Lighting Ceremony: Held at 5:45 PM, illuminating a 25-foot-tall Christmas tree that became a focal point of the evening’s celebrations.
- Starlight Parade: Commenced at 6:00 PM, showcasing over 100 participants, including festive floats, marching bands, dance teams, and classic cars, transforming Downtown Third Avenue into a luminous wonderland.
Community Engagement
The festival emphasized community involvement, with local high school art students participating in a T-shirt design contest. The top designs were sold during the event, with the two students whose designs sold the most receiving cash prizes. This initiative highlighted the city’s commitment to fostering local talent and engaging the youth in community traditions.
Transportation and Accessibility
To accommodate attendees, free parking was available at all City-owned parking lots around Downtown Third Avenue, including the Civic Branch Library and City Hall. For those using public transportation, the UC San Diego Blue Trolley provided convenient access to Chula Vista, with routes 701, 704, 705, or 709 stopping near Third Avenue. Additionally, youth 18 and under rode free with the Youth Opportunity Pass, ensuring the event was accessible to all community members.
Economic Impact
The Starlight Parade and Festival not only provided entertainment but also played a significant role in strengthening tourism in Southern California. By attracting visitors from surrounding areas, the event contributed to the local economy, benefiting businesses and vendors in Chula Vista. The city’s efforts to revitalize this tradition underscored its dedication to community engagement and economic development.
Background
The Starlight Parade and Festival is a longstanding tradition in Chula Vista, known for bringing together families and friends to celebrate the holiday season. After a three-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 61st edition marked a triumphant return, reflecting the community’s resilience and festive spirit. The event’s success highlighted the importance of such traditions in fostering community bonds and supporting local businesses.
Weather Conditions
The event took place under favorable weather conditions, with temperatures ranging from a low of 7.2°C (45°F) to a high of 19.4°C (67°F), providing a comfortable environment for attendees to enjoy the festivities.
Conclusion
The 61st Annual Starlight Parade and Festival in Chula Vista was a resounding success, bringing together generations and strengthening tourism in California. The event’s blend of tradition, community engagement, and economic impact exemplified the city’s commitment to celebrating the holiday season and fostering a vibrant community spirit.
FAQ
What is the Starlight Parade and Festival?
The Starlight Parade and Festival is a cherished holiday tradition in Chula Vista, featuring a parade with festive floats, marching bands, dance teams, and classic cars, along with a holiday market, tree lighting ceremony, and various family-friendly activities.
When did the 61st Annual Starlight Parade and Festival take place?
The 61st Annual Starlight Parade and Festival took place on December 6, 2025, in Chula Vista, California.
What were the main attractions of the event?
The main attractions included the Holiday Market & Festival, Tree Lighting Ceremony, and the Starlight Parade, featuring over 100 participants such as festive floats, marching bands, dance teams, and classic cars.
How did the event contribute to the local community?
The event fostered community engagement by involving local high school art students in a T-shirt design contest and attracted visitors from surrounding areas, boosting local tourism and benefiting Chula Vista’s economy.
What were the weather conditions during the event?
The event experienced favorable weather conditions, with temperatures ranging from a low of 7.2°C (45°F) to a high of 19.4°C (67°F), providing a comfortable environment for attendees.
Key Features of the 61st Annual Starlight Parade and Festival
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Date | December 6, 2025 |
| Location | Downtown Chula Vista, California |
| Key Attractions | Holiday Market & Festival, Tree Lighting Ceremony, Starlight Parade |
| Community Engagement | High school art students’ T-shirt design contest |
| Transportation | Free parking at City-owned lots; UC San Diego Blue Trolley access |
| Economic Impact | Boosted local tourism and benefited Chula Vista’s economy |
| Weather Conditions | Temperatures ranging from 7.2°C (45°F) to 19.4°C (67°F) |
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