NICEVILLE, Fla. — After an earlier postponement caused by cold and rain, the Niceville-Valparaiso Community Christmas Parade returned Saturday under brilliant blue skies and warm sunshine, delivering a picture-perfect Florida-style holiday celebration.
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Hosted by the Niceville-Valparaiso Rotary Club, the parade drew thousands of spectators who lined John Sims Parkway and Partin Drive, many dressed in festive outfits and holiday colors as they waited for the procession to roll through the heart of the city.
The parade featured a wide range of participants, including civic groups, schools, churches, local businesses, youth organizations, dignitaries, car clubs, motorcycles, horseback riders, fire-rescue units, law enforcement agencies, school bands, dancers, and twirlers.
Candy, soft drinks, toys, beads, and other goodies were tossed and handed to cheering onlookers of all ages, creating a lively, family-friendly atmosphere that stretched the full length of the route.
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Retired City of Niceville Fire Chief Tommy Mayville served as this year’s grand marshal, leading the parade and receiving waves and applause from the crowd as the procession passed by.
The Rotary Club said the parade’s 2025 theme, “Unite for the Holidays,” reflected the strong sense of togetherness on display throughout the morning, as neighbors, families, and visitors gathered to celebrate the season.
In addition to the festivities, spectators filled the Toys for Tots donation box at the judges stand, an effort the Rotary Club said demonstrated the community’s generosity and commitment to helping local children during the holidays.
Following the parade, the Niceville-Valparaiso Rotary Club announced the winners in multiple judging categories.
President’s Choice Award
Entry #21 — Randy Wise Construction
Grand Marshal Award
Entry #29 — Ruckel Chorus
Commercial
First place: Entry #41 — O’Hana Heating & Air, LLC
Second place: Entry #18 — Wal-Mart
Third place: Entry #16 — Roadside Assistance & Towing
Club / Non-Profit / Church – Adult
First place: Entry #25 — Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Second place: Entry #24 — Generations United
Third place: Entry #17 — Cross Point
Club / Non-Profit – Youth
First place: Entry #38 — Ruckel Football Team
Second place: Entry #34 — Cub Scout Pack 553
Third place: Entry #27 — Scout Troop 1157
Best Marching / Performing Unit
First place: Entry #36 — Ruckel Band
Second place: Entry #31 — Twinkling Twirlers
Third place: Entry #33 — All Star Twirlers
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The Rotary Club announced that awards will be presented on Tuesday, December 16, at 5:30 p.m. at 3rd Planet Brewery in Niceville.
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Organizers said the strong turnout, ideal weather, and enthusiastic support from spectators made the delayed parade well worth the wait, closing out the event with smiles, music, and holiday spirit felt along the route.
Enjoy more 2025 Niceville Christmas Parade photos at Niceville.com’s Facebook page, Niceville Fla.
