PARADE POLICIES
Theme Participation
All floats and entries must incorporate the 2024 theme, “Making Memories,” in some way. The City Fire and Police Departments are exempt. Prior to parade entry, you will be asked to explain how your group has embraced the theme. Failure to do so may result in exclusion from the parade.
Commercial Entries
Commercial entries (e.g., vehicles displaying business names) will not be accepted unless they align with the theme or are pulling a float or other entry.
Hand-Outs
Parade entries may distribute individually wrapped candies or items like pencils, beads, and hats along the parade route. Items must be handed out directly, not thrown. No coupons or flyers may be distributed.
Animals
Dogs are restricted from participating in the parade unless part of an organized, pre-approved animal event (per City Ordinance #2788). Animal entries must provide their own waste disposal measures (e.g., pooper-scooper or diapers) and are responsible for cleaning up the staging area and parade route. Non-compliance may result in removal from the parade and/or future exclusion.
Political Entries
Candidates running for office must participate in the main parade body and include the candidate. Elected officials will be placed in the Dignitary Line-up, ahead of the main body. No political comments or campaigning may take place along the parade route.
Water Guns
Water guns, squirt guns, and other water-spraying devices are strictly prohibited due to spectator complaints.
Parade Flow
To maintain the parade’s pace, performance stops are limited to 30 seconds.
Float Dimensions
Float trailers cannot exceed 45 feet in length or 8 feet in height. The festival is not liable for damages caused by trees or overhanging branches along the route. Floats must be able to safely navigate the corner at 3rd and Main Streets without jumping the curb, regardless of trailer size. Only experienced tractor drivers are allowed.
Sound
Amplified music must not exceed 85 decibels.
Insurance Disclaimer
Neither the City of Cedar Falls nor the Sturgis Falls Entertainment Committee is responsible for personal injuries or property damage resulting from parade participation. Participants should have appropriate insurance for medical, property damage, or liability coverage related to the parade.
The Sturgis Falls Entertainment Committee reserves the right to refuse participation or remove any entry deemed inappropriate or inconsistent with public taste.
Judging Rules
Select the category you’d like to be judged in on the parade registration form. Only original floats built for the Sturgis Falls Parade are eligible for competition. Be sure to arrive at the staging area by the designated time for judging.
Enjoy
We encourage all participants and spectators to have fun and enjoy the Sturgis Falls Celebration Parade! Let’s make lasting memories together, celebrating the community and creativity of everyone involved.
Ready to participate?
Fill out the registration form today and be part of this exciting event! Don’t miss out on the chance to join the fun and showcase your creativity.
