December 13, 2025 — Center Moriches Fire Department

The Center Moriches Fire Department is reminding residents and visitors to plan ahead as thousands are expected to gather tonight for the annual Holiday Parade of Lights in downtown Center Moriches. The popular event brings together community organizations, fire and EMS agencies, and special holiday guests, drawing large crowds along the parade route.

To ensure public safety, enhanced traffic controls and parking restrictions are in effect throughout the evening with assistance from the Suffolk County Police Department. Parking on Main Street between Lake Avenue and Ocean Avenue is prohibited during the parade, and vehicles remaining after mid-afternoon are subject to towing to maintain a clear and safe route for spectators and participants.

As the evening progresses, multiple traffic changes will take place, including restricted access on Lake Avenue and a full closure of Montauk Highway prior to the parade’s start. Local detours will be in place, and drivers are encouraged to use alternate routes to avoid congestion. Barricades will also be positioned along the parade route to improve pedestrian safety and manage crowd flow.

Officials advise residents to complete errands early and allow extra travel time, as roads in the area are expected to become heavily congested. Emergency services will remain fully staffed and staged throughout the community to ensure rapid response if needed.

Cold temperatures are forecast for the evening, and parade-goers are encouraged to dress warmly and prepare for winter conditions. Fire officials thanked the community for its cooperation and support, noting that these measures are necessary to keep the Holiday Parade of Lights a safe, festive, and family-friendly tradition.