Apex Rotary Christmas Parade illuminates downtown, impacts traffic and access
The Apex Rotary Christmas Parade, Wake County's only nighttime holiday parade, takes place today in downtown Apex starting at 5:00 p.m. The event brings seasonal crowds, temporary road closures and transit changes, and new accessibility features that matter for residents, drivers and local businesses.
The annual Apex Rotary Christmas Parade is underway tonight in downtown Apex, beginning at 5:00 p.m. at Ambergate Station and The Peakway, winding down Salem Street and concluding near Moore Street. As the county's only nighttime holiday parade, the event draws families and visitors into the central business district for an evening of lights and holiday displays.
Organizers have outlined viewing logistics for attendees, including rules on where chairs may be placed and a designated accessible viewing area at Apex Fire Station 1. New for 2025 are two temporary bleacher sections offered on a first come, first served basis, along with additional accessible parking details intended to improve access for people with mobility challenges. The parade will proceed rain or shine, and a live stream is available for those who cannot attend in person.
Traffic and transit changes are in effect across the parade route. Road closures begin in the event area to ensure pedestrian safety and to allow floats and marching units to assemble. GoApex transit and local parking options will operate on modified routes and schedules for the duration of the event, and residents should expect delays and reroutes in the immediate downtown area. Attendees and nearby drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and to follow posted detours to limit congestion on adjacent streets.
The parade generates concentrated evening foot traffic that benefits downtown merchants and restaurants during a critical holiday sales period. For residents, the event offers a family friendly evening and an opportunity to support local organizations while prompting short term changes to routines and commutes. For people planning to attend in person, arriving early improves chances of securing bleacher seating or convenient parking, and accessible viewing is available at the fire station location.
This community celebration balances festive attractions with operational logistics that affect travel and access across downtown Apex. Those unable to attend can watch the event via the live stream, while residents and visitors on site should heed signage and volunteer directions to keep the parade moving smoothly and safely.
