We’ve made every attempt to anticipate your questions and have answered them here. Please read this list of Frequently Asked Questions before contacting the Christmas Parade Committee. The committee is made up of a few individuals that feel Owensboro should have a Christmas parade every year. These volunteers are non-paid and have full time jobs within the community.
Frequently Asked Questions and Their Answers
- What is the date and time of the parade?
For 2023 it is Saturday, November 18th from 4:30pm to 6:30pm.
- We would like to give candy to the children during the parade. Can we do that?
We welcome entrants that wish to give candy to the children, however, there are a couple of guidelines we must follow: 1) All candy must be individually wrapped and 2) All candy must be handed to the children. Throwing candy is not allowed as it could cause potential harm to the child. Children do not always look before running out to get a piece of stray candy; they could reach under a float, or run in front of a car, etc.
- When is the deadline for filing an entry application for our organization?
Your application must be submitted through our website before midnight October 31st, 2023, to receive Early Bird Rates. Applications will be accepted through November 7th, 2023, at the standard rates.
- How long does the parade last?
This year, the parade will be from 4:30pm to 6:30pm.
- Where do I pickup my children that participate in the parade?
Please check with your unit on their plan for picking up your child. Some units will take participating children to a designated area prearranged with the parents. Other units will simply disband at the end of the parade.
- What bands are expected to participate?
All of our schools have wonderful music instrumental programs. Bands expected this year include Burns Middle School, Daviess County Middle School, Daviess County High School, Apollo High School, Owensboro Catholic High School, and Owensboro High School.
- Where will my son or daughter’s scout troop line up?
Each scout group will meet with their individual troop. It is imperative that your child know their scout troop’s number. With a dozen troops and hundreds of scouts it is nearly impossible to get them to the right group in a timely fashion if they do not know what troop they belong to. Make sure your child knows their troop number.
- What is the largest float I can enter?
The tallest a float can be is 13 feet to clear the Glover H. Cary Bridge, over-head street lights, traffic lights and power lines. A full sized tractor-trailer can navigate the entire route without much trouble.
- What are the plans in case of inclement weather?
In the case of inclement weather the parade will be postponed one (1) hour. At that time, the parade committee will determine if the parade will proceed. Due to the fact that many floats are rented for the day, our special event permit from the City is only good for this date, our insurance coverage, etc., it is not possible to reschedule the parade. Entry fees are not refundable.
- What time do we need to have our float in place?
Judging starts at 3:00pm and it is recommended that entries be in place by that time.