2023 Parade Registration Registration Open!
Parade: Saturday, November 25, 2023 - 7 p.m. NEW DATE THIS YEAR!
Parade Entry Due Date: November 8, 2023
Thank you for your interest in participating in the 2023 HomeTown HoliDazzle Illuminated Parade! Please complete the following entry form. Completing the application does not guarantee a spot in the parade. Entries will be evaluated and considered for admission in the order in which they are received. Don’t delay. Spaces are limited.
You will be notified as soon as a decision is made so you can create your entry! A Parade Procedures Packet will be emailed soon after acceptance. This packet will contain all of the information, directions, maps etc. you will need for the parade.
Float categories for judging are as follows:
A copy of your entry will be sent to the email you used to submit this application. Please retain for your records.
If you have any questions you may email us at: wilmingtonholidazzle@gmail.com
Happy HoliDazzle!
You will be notified as soon as a decision is made so you can create your entry! A Parade Procedures Packet will be emailed soon after acceptance. This packet will contain all of the information, directions, maps etc. you will need for the parade.
Float categories for judging are as follows:
- Best Small Float - any float of approximately 20 feet or shorter, or flat bed truck of same length
- Best Large Float - semi truck and trailer, large farm equipment, other large specialty vehicle
- Best Overall Use of Lights - exemplifying the look and tradition of the holiday season
- Mayor’s Choice - Best float as chosen by the Mayor of Wilmington
A copy of your entry will be sent to the email you used to submit this application. Please retain for your records.
If you have any questions you may email us at: wilmingtonholidazzle@gmail.com
Happy HoliDazzle!
This is your time to shine...literally! Light up your entry and join us to light up the night for Wilmington's Annual HomeTown HoliDazzle Illuminated Parade. MAKE IT DAZZLING!
Parade Rules and Regulations
- This is an illuminated parade. ALL entries must be well lit.
- There is a maximum of 60 entries. Applications will be evaluated for acceptance based on theme, entertainment value, and use of lights (clear and/or colored).
- Application deadline is Monday, November 9, 2023. Applications will not be accepted or considered after entry deadline. Entries not pre-approved will not be admitted into the parade.
- The Parade Committee reserves the right to reject any entry that is not in good taste, is inappropriate, or is not in the best interest of the parade.
- Entries depicting a political organization, candidate, or controversial issue will not be considered.
- Maximum height for entries is 13.5 feet from ground; maximum width is 9.5 feet.
- All entries should be properly identified with signs or banners with each organization's name and the Parade Identifying Number clearly displayed, as directed by Parade Personnel. A holiday message is suggested. NO sales messages.
- Drivers of motorized vehicles must be at least 18 years of age and have a valid driver's license.
- Sirens and horns can only be used with advance approval of the Parade Committee (they frighten young children and animals and compete with musical units).
- A maximum of 100 walkers is permitted with your entry; maximum does not apply to marching bands.
- Equestrian and other animal entries must provide their own accompanying cleanup personnel and equipment. If you have a vehicle, carriage, etc., it must be well lit in keeping with the illuminated theme.
- All parade participants are required to conduct themselves in such a manner as to avoid infringing on the rights of those people living in and along the staging areas of the parade route. NO solicitation is allowed during the event.
- The Parade Committee will be hosting Santa and Mrs. Claus. No other entries may include a live Santa or Mrs. Claus.
Safety Requirements
- The City of Wilmington law prohibits throwing items in a parade. Objects MAY NOT BE TOSSED out along the entire parade route or in the staging area; this includes candy, flyers, and trinkets.
- There will be no fueling of generators during the parade. Fuel cans are not allowed to be stored on the entry.
- There will be no live fires (including wood stoves) on any floats.
- One current 5-pound ABC dry chemical extinguisher must be carried and accessible on each float.
- There are to be no vision obstructions to tow vehicles. An observer other than the driver is required for all towed entries. The observer can walk or ride with the entry.
- Electrical safety is a priority. During parade staging, safety inspectors will look for common hazards such as exceeding the number of light strands per manufacturer's specifications, faulty extension cords, staples in wiring, etc.
- Float riders must remain on the float throughout the entire parade route (i.e., no one can get on or off the float during the parade).
- Alcoholic beverages are not allowed in the staging area, during the parade, or to be distributed at any time.
- No smoking on or near entries.
- Generators must be placed in a well ventilated area. We recommend the use of 10-12 gauge wire to the generator.
- Any violation of the rules or safety requirements may result in removal of the unit from the parade.
