Parade Participant

The parade committee is preparing for the 2026 Clara Peoples Freedom Trail Parade and invites organizations, groups, and community members to participate and showcase their entries to the public. Juneteenth is an annual celebration of freedom, and Oregon’s celebration has been active for more than 50 years.

The parade will kick off our Annual Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 20, 2026.

Parade Details

• Gathering begins at 9:00 AM at King School, 4906 NE 6th Ave., Portland, OR
• The parade route is approximately 2 miles
• Participants may distribute invitations, promotional materials, or discounts along the route
• The parade concludes at the festival at Lillis-Albina Park (N. Russell St. & N. Flint Ave.), where vendors, entertainment, and community festivities will take place 

The parade is titled the Clara Peoples Freedom Trail Parade, honoring Juneteenth Oregon founder Clara Peoples, known as the Mother of Juneteenth.

We welcome a wide range of participants, including bands, floats, dance teams, drill teams, car clubs, motorcycle clubs, schools, youth groups, community organizations, and groups marching with banners or uniforms.

Registration must be submitted by June 1, 2026.

Parade Participation Terms & Conditions

Participation in the Clara Peoples Freedom Trail Parade is free; however, all applications are subject to review and approval by the parade committee. Submission of an application does not guarantee participation.

All entries must align with the spirit of the Juneteenth celebration and be appropriate for a family-friendly community event. The parade committee reserves the right to approve, deny, or remove any entry that does not meet event guidelines or safety standards.

Approved participants must check in and be staged at the designated gathering location by the assigned time. Late arrivals may forfeit their place in the parade lineup. All participants are responsible for their own equipment, materials, and cleanup.

Participants may distribute promotional materials along the parade route but may not throw items into the crowd. Any vehicles participating in the parade must have valid and current automobile insurance. All vehicles, floats, and participants must follow directions from parade staff, volunteers, and public safety officials at all times.

By participating, entrants agree to assume responsibility for their group’s conduct and release the event organizers from liability for injury, loss, or damage related to participation in the parade. The event may photograph or record participants for promotional purposes.

The parade committee reserves the right to modify parade details or cancel the event if necessary due to safety, weather, or unforeseen circumstances.