Greater Valdosta Community Christmas Parade Application

We’re beyond excited that you want to join us for the Greater Valdosta Community Christmas Parade! This year’s theme, Christmas in Georgia, promises to bring all the magic, charm, and southern holiday spirit to life, and we can’t wait to share it with you!

To make things even easier, we’ve introduced a new online application and payment process, so you can register and pay by credit card in just a few clicks! If you’re unable to pay online, don’t worry—just email us at downtowninfo@valdostacity.com, and we’ll help you with other options.

Mark your calendars for December 7, 2024, at 6 p.m. This is going to be an unforgettable evening full of festive cheer, twinkling lights, and holiday joy!

Be sure to read through the information below, as we’ve made a few important updates and changes to make this year’s parade the best one yet!

Theme:

• Christmas in Georgia

Parade Route:

• Enter the parade from Burton Street and Oak Street.
• Turn right onto Patterson Street to be stopped to get into the Parade Route.
• Parade entrees will be allowed to enter the parade route

Lineup and Check-In:

• Lineup begins at 2:00 PM and ends at 5:00 PM.
• You must check in to be directed to your position. Without checking in, you won’t be announced and will disrupt the parade order.
• Walking groups must have a representative check in. Walking up behind a float without checking in is not allowed.
• Lineup is on a first-come, first-served basis.

During the Parade:

• All entries must keep moving forward except for one stop at the judges' table.
• This applies to walking groups, dance teams, and performing groups.
• Violations, like causing gaps in the parade, will lead to removal and disqualification from future parades.

Pageant Winners:

• Pageant winners may join the parade if they provide their own convertible or float, pay the entry fee, and have a professionally printed sign.

Entry Descriptions:

• Provide a description of your group or float with your application for TV announcers and emcees.

Parade Marshals:

• Marshals have the authority to remove any participant not following guidelines.

Float Judging Criteria:

• Floats will be judged on Overall Appearance, Special Effects (lighting), Creativity, and Use of the Theme.
• All entries must reflect a holiday or parade theme, and decorative lighting is encouraged.

Candy Distribution:

• If distributing candy, walkers must hand it out. Throwing candy from floats is not allowed.

Signage Requirements:

• Each entry must have identification signs on both sides or the front, with letters at least six inches tall.
• Handwritten signs are not allowed; signs must look professional for attendees and media.

Music:

• Music must be appropriate for the Christmas season. Vulgar or inappropriate music will result in immediate removal from the parade.

Vehicle Guidelines:

• Semi-trucks can only pull one trailer.
• Enclosed cars are not allowed, except with prior approval.
• Cars and trucks can be used as floats if decorated.
• No riding on the hoods of vehicles.

Other Rules:

• No one can dress as Santa Claus.
• Burnouts or stunts are prohibited.
• Trailers must have wheel covers or fenders to participate.
• Participants must keep their hands and legs inside vehicles or trailers at all times.