Register for the Parade

Q: Do I have to walk in the parade?

A: Get creative with your parade entry – floats are nice, but you can have a lot of fun with walkers and cars too.  For example, balloon animals/art can help bring color to your group; giveaways are always popular (fans, candy, beads or sunglasses can be great options); music is always a great way to bring fun and energy; noisemakers or thunder sticks are great at increasing energy and excitement; anyone can drive a plain car – decorate with streamers, balloons or window paint to add some flair.

Q: Can my group perform in the parade?

A:  Yes, we enjoy having groups entertain spectators along the parade route.  However, we ask that you do not stop anywhere along the route to perform.  We encourage performances that can safely be done while walking.

Q: Can I hand things out during the parade?

A: Yes, in fact we encourage you to hand out giveaways.  Just note that while giveaways are great, no items should be thrown.   Anything being passed out needs to be walked to the curb and handed out safely.

Q: When does parade assembly (lining-up) begin?

A: On the day of the parade, assembly begins at 11:00A.  Street closures for the parade begin at 12P, so make sure you are in line and ready to go before 12P.

Q: Where do I go to line-up for the parade?

A: Parade assembly, or line-up, begins at Main and Mill Street.

Parade numbers will be assigned in early August.  Based on your parade number, you will be assigned a designated line-up area.   Please refer to the map below to understand where you should go upon getting to Main and Mill St.

Q: Can I be dropped off at the assembly area?

A: Yes, you can be dropped off close to the assembly area check-in point at Main and Mill St. but you are not able to park there.  Traffic will be directed to keep moving.

Q: When does the parade route close for traffic?

A: The parade route closes for traffic at 12:00P.  All cars either need to be moved somewhere else or will not be able to move until after the parade concludes and street reopens (around 3:00P).

Q: When will I get my parade number?

A: Parade numbers will be assigned to all entries and will be emailed out to the person who submitted the parade application a few days before the parade.  Please do not request to be moved as changes cannot be accommodated.

Q: What is the pace of the parade?

A: The pace of the parade is a comfortable walking pace with a goal of keeping some distance (ideally 2 car lengths) between you and the group in front of you.  We aim to not have gaps in our parade so stay on it.

Walk at a pace that is comfortable without leaving too big a gap between you and the group in front of you.  You do not want to crowd one another but also do not want to walk in a parade of one.

Q: How early can I save my parade seats?

A: You can start to save your parade seats on Sunday morning, as early as 10:00A.

Q: Can I put down a tarp or blanket to save parade seats?

A: Yes, you can save seats with lawn chairs, tarps or blankets anywhere along the parade route.  Please be mindful of people's homes and property when saving seats.  Tarps or blankets are not to exceed 10ft in size.

Q: When can I expect the parade to “show up?”

A: The parade steps off from Main and Mill St. at 1:00P.  The closer you are to that location, the earlier the parade will show up.   Typically, the first few groups arrive at Village Hall around 1:25P.

Q: Where is the best spot to view the parade?

A: There are lots of fantastic spots along the parade route.  Enjoy it from the comfort of your front yard or get closer to the rest of the Montgomery Fest action and sit near Village Hall.  The choice is yours but the fun is for all.

Q: When does the parade route close for traffic?

A: The parade route closes for traffic at 12:00P.  All cars either need to be moved somewhere else or will not be able to move until after the parade concludes and street reopens (around 3:00P).

Q: What is there to do before the parade?

A: Grab your pole and enter the Carp Fishing Derby. Registration and fishing begins at 6A along the Fox River.
The Craft & Market Fair also opens at 10A on Sunday and closes at 7P.
Food vendors open at 10A on Sunday and close at 9P.
Save your seats then join us starting at 11:30A on River St. in front of Village Hall.  

The fun doesn’t end after the parade.  Stop by Montgomery Park to enjoy carnival rides, live entertainment, watch the Rotary Duck Race, feast on fun food and enjoy a cold beverage before fireworks Sunday night.