Information and Guidelines
This year’s theme: The Polar Express
Parade Date: Friday, December 13, 2024 at 6 p.m.Registration
When registering for the parade, please plan an announcement for your entry. This can be a greeting or information about your entry. Information should be kept to no longer than 15 seconds. Examples below:“The Smith Family, driving their antique convertible corvette, wishes you and your family a very Merry Christmas!”
“Join North West ACE Hardware as we bring the magic of the Polar Express to life! Join the Lee family on their festive journey filled with holiday cheer!”
Entry Fees
The entry fee is $15. Entry Fees help to pay for radio and print advertisement, awards and other parade costs.Fees are waived for First Responders, Military. Entry fees must be paid or arranged 3 days prior to the start of the parade to be considered for the lineup.
Assembly
The assembly area is located on South Main Street from 8th to Church Street.The parade will begin to assemble at 4:30 p.m. Participants will need to check in at the corner of Academy and 6th Street by Heritage Hall, where you will be directed to your assigned spot. All participants should be checked in no later than 5:30 pm. A line up number will be emailed to you a few days prior to the parade. Your line up number should be visible on your entry (right hand side) or handed to the announcer’s assistant as you are approaching Tavern Street for the DJ to announce.
The Parade Route
The start of the route is from the intersection of Church Street and South Main Street to Tavern Street and North Main Street, which is approximately half a mile. From your line up space to the end may be longer.
The parade will start promptly at 6 pm and expected to complete by later than 7:30 pm.
The disbanding area is Tavern Street and High Street AFTER passing the Judge’s Stand.
Float Awards
Awards will be given 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. Creativity, decorations, lights and adherence to theme will be considered during judging.Band and Performing Teams Awards
Awards will be given 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place.We ask that all participating bands and dance teams perform throughout the entire parade route.
If special music is required, please note that on the registration form and provide the Song Title and Artist Name.
Bands and dance teams will be allowed to perform at the judge's stand. We do ask that you limit your time of performance to 2 to 3 minutes. Christmas selections are preferred.
Parade Guidelines
- Your group may hand out candy. We prefer that it be handed rather than thrown for safety reasons. Floats should have someone walking along side if you wish to give out candy.
- Your group will need to provide the candy.
- All drivers must remain in their vehicle for the duration of the parade. Drivers will need to be aware of entries/ floats in front of them. Vehicles and groups will move at approximately 2 miles per hour and should keep a 20-to-30-foot distance between entries.
- There must be a responsible adult on all floats with children.
- The Santa Clause: There is only one Santa, and he rides at the end of the parade. It is confusing to small children to see more than one Santa and Mrs. Claus riding on floats: therefore no one may dress as Santa or Mrs. Claus on your float or in your vehicle.
- No tobacco or alcoholic beverages on any parade entry at any time before or during the parade.
- No parade participant will be allowed to have a firearm at any time. Only on duty law enforcement officers will be permitted to having a firearm.
- Drivers, please check your vehicle's breaks and make sure your vehicle is in top shape to participate in the parade.
If you need more information or have any questions, please email info@blackstonechamberva.com