PARADE GUIDELINES

• NO SANTA OR MRS. CLAUS ARE PERMITTED EXCEPT ON THE OFFICIAL KCBIA SANTA CLAUS FLOAT. This includes anyone dressing or appearing in the likeness of Santa Claus. Non-compliance will result in immediate removal.  
• All instructions from Parade Marshals must be obeyed. The Parade Marshals may reject any entry that is declared not suitable for the parade. 
• All float components must be lit and decorated in festive Christmas or Parade theme including tow vehicles, walkers, and mascots. That includes dressing in matching costumes or uniforms to match the theme of the parade or their entry including winter wear. Street clothes are not acceptable! 
• Entries must maintain a forward motion. Marching, maneuvering, sidestepping or other action is permitted provided the entry maintains a forward motion, consistent with the pace of the parade. 
• All components of the float entry must stay with the entry. Mascots, volunteers, or distributors can not “overflow” into entries before or following entry. Keep with your group.
• Alcoholic beverages and smoking are forbidden on any entry. Any participant suspected of being under the influence will be removed. 
• Seasonal music is strongly encouraged.  
• No child under 8 years old will be allowed to walk in the parade unless they are part of an organized group and can maintain the pace of the parade. 
• All animal entries must have a costumed person following with clean-up equipment.
• All judging will be done BEFORE the start of the parade. 

GIVEAWAYS

Giveaways are allowed along the parade route under the following restrictions:   

• Nothing may be thrown. Approved giveaways must be distributed in person, along the curb of the parade route only.  If anything is thrown from float and/or walkers, the entry risks being prohibited in future parades.  
• Distribution of literature flyers, canvassing or asking for donations is prohibited.  
• DO NOT HOLD UP THE pace FOR HANDOUTS. Don’t try to give to everyone – it is just impossible! 

IDENTIFICATION 

For identification and safety purposes, names of ALL participating individuals (walkers, riders, and drivers), including minors, must be submitted for parade day. 

How do I apply for the parade? 

Parade applications will be open through our website. Once we have enough applications (up to 55), we will close submissions and go through our vetting process.

Is there a fee to attend the parade?

No - the parade is a free, family-friendly event for all.

What types of floats and participants are allowed?

Floats should align with the Merry and Bright theme, and participants may include businesses, community groups, and other organizations. We allow floats and walking groups in the parade. All participants must be illuminated in festive lighting and decoration to be approved. Float designs should be family-friendly, follow safety guidelines, and reflect the parade's theme and/or the holidays. For detailed guidelines, refer to the float registration package.

Where do I park?

We understand parking is tricky during the event. There will be limited access to street parking due to event traffic closures. Free parking is available at the Lansdowne and Seymour Street parkades. We encourage participants and attendees to carpool or use public transit and rideshare services. Please review our road closure notice before arriving and give yourself time to get in and out of downtown.