MADISON – Pretty dolls. Big-wheel trucks. LEGOs or Lincoln Logs. Maybe a board game. These toys will match the “Santa’s Workshop” theme for the 2023 Madison Christmas Parade.

This year’s parade on Saturday, Dec. 9, will start at 5 p.m. The Parks and Recreation Department with the City of Madison is coordinating the parade.

Parade units from mom-and-pop businesses, school clubs and children’s extracurricular groups retain the nostalgic charm of small-town life. Spectators can plan to see elected officials riding by, with musical groups, dancers and baton twirlers proudly marching (and maybe pitching candy in your direction).

Organizers encouraged parade entrants to decorate floats or vehicles to follow the theme, “Santa’s Workshop.”

Parade units will line up on Plaza Boulevard. The parade will proceed south on Hughes Road to Insanity Complex at the corner of Hughes and Mill roads.

Judges will rate the units during lineup on Plaza Boulevard and while the parade is mobile.

In case of rain, the Christmas parade will shift to Dec. 10 at 2 p.m.

Winners will receive their awards at an upcoming meeting of Madison City Council.