St. Cloud Christmas Parade Tonight (What to Know Before You Go)

Few things in central Minnesota bring out the Christmas spirit like St. Cloud's 'Winter Nights & Lights' Parade, set to start at 5 PM tonight in downtown St. Cloud. Here's the scoop on what you need to know (whether you're bar hopping or dragging the kids along).

• Parade start time: 5 PM.
• Parade route: Along West Saint Germain Street (from 12th Avenue N to 4th Avenue N) in downtown St. Cloud.
• What to expect: Illuminated holiday floats and festive music, accompanied by ah-inspiring lights, timeless tunes, and creative parade floats.
• The history: This will be the 16th annual Winter Nights & Lights Parade.
• Weather: Temps in the single digits, with wind chills just below zero. Snow should arrive just in time to deliver some holiday magic. #BundleUp
• Before & after: Shopping, eating & drinking.
• Official tree lighting: Corner of 10th Av. N & West St. Germain at 6 PM, featuring the STC Symphony and Apollo HS Choir.

This is a very family-friendly event, and your kids will lose their minds with all the lights, excitement, and Santa. (I know I do.) :)