Colorado's brightest holiday tradition is returning for a 50th year. The 9NEWS Parade of Lights will celebrate its 50th anniversary on Saturday in downtown Denver. Produced by the Downtown Denver Partnership and presented by American Furniture Warehouse and Intermountain Health, the Colorado holiday tradition dates back to 1975 and has grown into the largest and most-watched parade in the Rocky Mountain region. The holiday parade, which is free to attend, will have more than 40 illuminated floats, helium-filled character balloons, marching bands, equestrian units and cultural entries and a special appearance from Santa Claus. Here's what you need to know to prepare for Denver's brightest holiday season tradition. 9NEWS Parade of Lights. The 50th annual 9NEWS Parade of Lights will be held Saturday, Dec. 7, at 6 p.m. in downtown Denver. Parade route. The 9NEWS Parade of Lights will begin in front of the spectacular Denver City and County Building before traveling through downtown Denver on a two-mile parade route. The parade then travels up Tremont Street to 17th Street where it then goes northwest for several blocks before turning onto Arapahoe Street. Finally, the parade loops back on 15th Street to Glenarm.