PARTICIPANT FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the registration process?
Registration is online-only. To complete a registration form, you’ll need basic information about your entry including the name of the entry, general knowledge of vehicles, etc. to be included, contact information for your designated Parade Safety Officer (if required). Once the form has been submitted, you’ll need to make your registration fee payment to formally complete your registration. The last step will be attending the mandatory participant meeting to pick up your lineup information the week of the parade.
How much does it cost to participate?
The parade committee utilizes a tiered fee schedule to encourage early registration. During the month of September, registration fees are $50.00 for Private/Non-Profit entries and $100.00 for Commercial entries. There is no fee for Marching Band and Government entries. Fees increase in $25.00 increments in October and then in November making the maximum fees $100.00 for Private/Non-Profit and $150.00 for Commercial entries.
What is a Parade Safety Officer and does every entry need one?
A Parade Safety Officer or PSO is an individual designated by you that is responsible for ensuring all rules, regulations, and procedures are followed by your entry leading up to, during, and after the event. They are required to attend the mandatory participant meeting and will be issued a safety vest they are required to wear at the event. During the parade, they are required to walk in the curb lane behind their respective entry and serve as a point of contact for parade officials and law enforcement personnel along the route. Everyone is required to have a PSO unless you have a car club entry (that has no walkers or trailers), a marching band entry, or a government entry.
What are the types of registrations?
There are four types of entries: Private/Non-Profit, Commercial, Marching Band, or Government. Private/Non-Profit registrations are for individuals or non-profit organizations like a church, scout troop, car club, or youth sports organization. Commercial registrations are for businesses that by use of vehicle, signage, or otherwise, are advertising a product or service. Marching Band registrations are for marching bands. Government registrations are for government agencies and currently elected officials.
Are there limitations on how many vehicles can participate and what is considered a vehicle?
Yes. Private/Non-Profit and Marching Band entries may have up to four and Commercial entries may have up to two. There is an exception for Car Clubs that register as a Private/Non-Profit entry – they may have up to 20 vehicles. A vehicle is defined as a car, truck, van, or sport-utility vehicle and the trailer attached. So for example, a pickup truck with a trailer is considered one vehicle. Motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, golf carts, and bicycles are not considered vehicles.
How long is the parade route?
From the official parade start (the railroad crossing) to parade end (40th Street North) the route is about 1.6 miles. However, depending upon where you line up it could be up to 2.5 miles.
Can people walk in the parade?
Yes, however, walkers must be at least 8 years old and there can only be a maximum of ten walkers per entry excluding the Parade Safety Officer. Marching bands and dance or other performance groups are exempt from this limitation. This is a new rule for 2025 to address safety concerns and parade gaps.
Can animals walk in the parade?
Yes, but there are limitations. Horses are prohibited. Other animals must be on a lead at all times and capable of completing the route. Lights, noise, and crowd interactions should also be taken into consideration.
Can we distribute things to the crowd?
Yes, but there are limitations. Permitted handouts include beads, individually wrapped candy, apparel, and any soft/inflatable items. Paper products, lollipops, and pens/pencils are strictly prohibited. Items can be tossed underhand from vehicles or walkers.
Questions? We can be reached by e-mailing celebratepinellaspark@gmail.com.