Temperatures are freezing outside, so let’s start thinking of warmer times to come and celebrating our independence at the Greeley Stampede! Now is the perfect time to start brainstorming your float that will wow spectators at one of the largest 4th of July parades in the nation.
“There is something special about parades,” commented Stephen Walker, Greeley Stampede Parades Chairman. “It’s the community coming together to celebrate, seeing everyone’s creations, and continuing family traditions that makes the magic.”
Be a part of the magic by creating a float! This year’s theme for the 2023 parade is, “Celebrating Our Community”. This can include anything that makes you proud to be a part of Northern Colorado including our past, present or future, special features or accomplishments. Share with the 40,000 spectators why you love living here and you could win $500 for Best Overall Float!
We can’t have a parade without the iconic sound of marching bands! The first three bands to apply and be accepted will receive a payment of $1,000 to the organization. Marching bands also have the opportunity to win Best Marching Band and entered to win a $1,000 donation for the Ebba Mae Granat Memorial Award.
All prize categories for the parade entries include:
Best Marching Band: Music that enhances the theme
Best Overall Float: Demonstrated use of traditional building techniques. Points will be given to floats that cover the sides of their floats, features and overall appearance ($500 award).
The Patriot Award: Demonstration of a patriotic theme befitting Independence Day and/or of our western heritage.
Ebba Mae Granat Memorial Award: $1,000 donation for the best youth representation of agriculture or marching band
UNC Community Fan Pick: Top 15 floats will be selected and voted on by the community via Facebook following the parade.
Categories for parade entries include: Floats, Marching Band, Equestrian - Group Riders, Equestrian – Horse Drawn, Walking Group, and Vehicle Group.
Apply early and save! Early bird applications start at $80 and will increase to $100 March 1st then to $125 June 1st. Standard entries include up to 80 feet of space. Additional length can be requested for $20 per 10 feet. Deadline to apply is June 11th.
Ready to get your parade entry started? Click here for parade rules, information you need to know and to apply. Questions about being in the parade? Contact Stephen Walker at parades@greeleystampede.org.