Parade Participation

Join us Saturday, July 18th, for the 2026 Heartland Pride Parade! The parade will travel through the Capitol District as we celebrate the vibrant diversity of our community.

 To help create a safe, welcoming, and joyful experience for everyone, all participants agree to the following:

Registration & Communication

• All applications are reviewed by the Heartland Pride Parade Committee to ensure alignment with the spirit of the event.
• Final line-up details and day-of instructions will be shared at least one week prior to the parade.

Day-of Expectations

• Access to the staging area begins at approximately 8:30am. All groups must be in their assigned staging location by 9:45am. The parade will begin promptly at 10:00am.
• Please follow all directions from Heartland Pride staff, parade volunteers, security personnel, and local law enforcement.
• Groups are responsible for their own setup and cleanup before and after the parade.

Creating a Welcoming Environment

• Heartland Pride is a family-friendly celebration of LGBTQ+ pride and community. We ask that all signage, messaging, and displays reflect respect and inclusivity for attendees of all ages.
• Attire should be appropriate for a public, all-ages event and comply with local laws and ordinances. Parade organizers reserve the right to make final determinations regarding appropriateness.

Safety Guidelines

• For everyone’s safety, please do not throw items directly at spectators. Items may be gently tossed or handed to individuals along the curb, but should never be thrown into crowds or from a distance.
• Animals are welcome if they are well-behaved, under control, and comfortable in crowded environments. Handlers are responsible for cleanup and ensuring the safety of participants and spectators at all times. Heartland Pride reserves the right to ask that any animal be removed if safety concerns arise.
• To help reduce waste and align with festival policies, please do not distribute bags (including plastic or non-clear bags) along the parade route.
• Strobe lights are not permitted.
• Alcohol and illegal substances are not allowed during staging or along the parade route.

Vehicles & Movement

• All vehicle operators must be properly licensed and carry valid insurance.
  Vehicles must operate safely at all times and maintain appropriate distance from spectators.
• In the event of a breakdown, participants are responsible for promptly removing their vehicle.
• Once the parade begins, units should continue moving forward unless directed otherwise by parade staff or public safety officials.