The holiday season will soon be making its way to Uptowne Galion, and organizers are already inviting businesses, organizations, and community groups to participate by reserving a place in one of the city’s favorite seasonal traditions. Come Home to Galion returns on Saturday, December 5, with its annual holiday parade stepping off at 4:00 PM. This year, however, the celebration is adding something new: a theme designed to put a little extra music into the afternoon.
Santa’s Greatest Hits
The inaugural theme is “Santa’s Greatest Hits,” inviting parade participants to build their entries around a favorite Christmas or holiday song. Floats might take inspiration from familiar classics, contemporary favorites, or seasonal music that simply captures the spirit of the group taking part. Participants also can incorporate their chosen song into the music accompanying their parade entry. Following the theme is encouraged but not required.
Organizers hope to make an annual theme part of future Come Home to Galion celebrations, with this year’s musical idea serving as the debut.
A Chance to Compete
Participants who embrace the theme can also choose to enter the parade competition, and awards are planned for two categories: a Judge’s Pick and a People’s Choice award, giving both official judges and parade spectators a chance to recognize a favorite entry.
Groups can indicate on the registration form whether they plan to participate in the theme and whether they would like to compete for Best in Show honors.
From Heise Park to Uptowne
Parade participants should be lined up with vehicles in place at Heise Park by 3:00 PM on Saturday, December 5. The parade will step off at 4:00 PM, traveling from Heise Park along Jefferson Street before turning onto Harding Way West. The procession will continue through Uptowne Galion before concluding near South Columbus Street. Organizers will send participating groups an email with final instructions and other necessary information on the Monday before the event.
Registration Is Open
Businesses, nonprofit organizations, civic groups, clubs, churches, families, and others interested in joining the parade can register through the official 2026 Come Home to Galion parade form.
Parade registration is available at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfgXDl8tTQ6R88DFEu5RXDEn5ORCWuL9j50H52MgO9L2-uGzg/viewform
With Halloween still ahead, December may feel distant. But for anyone planning a float, choosing a favorite Christmas song, or trying to win the crowd’s vote, the countdown to Come Home to Galion has already begun.