Frequently asked questions
Q. Can I bring my RV and sit in it to watch the parade?
A. If you plan to park along the route to view the parade, please keep in mind that no vehicle larger than a standard pick-up will be allowed to park along the parade route.
Q. How big can my float be?
A. Floats should be no wider than 8 feet and no taller than 13'6", in order to clear power lines, etc.
Q. We want to use a DJ on our float. Is that OK?
A. Please do not use generators to power music. Keep in mind, this is a family event. Please limit yourself to holiday music that is family friendly.
Q. Can we use a confetti cannon on the float?
A. To ensure that our city stays beautiful, please do not plan to use or throw any confetti, either by hand or via cannon.
Q. We want to pass out candy and beads, is that allowed?
A. If you wish to distribute candy or anything else, please plan to have people walking beside your float. Additionally, if you begin the parade walking, you must walk for the duration of the parade. If you are on a float, you must stay on the float. This is for the safety of all participants and parade goers and to ensure a happy and safe holiday season.
A. Unless other arrangements are made by the band leader, bands will be told to meet on the back steps of the Judicial Center. You will not be allowed to enter the park in the parking lot of the Judicial Center, either to drop off or to park. Parking will be allowed on the other side of Harrison.
Q. Why don't you allow throwing candy from the float? And why can't I walk part way and then get up on the float and ride?
A. Nationwide, hundreds of people are injured or killed each year in parade related accidents. Sometimes it happens when they are trying to climb aboard a moving float and fall off, either hitting their heads or being caught under the wheels. Sometimes it happens when a child darts out to get a piece of candy and is hit by an oncoming vehicle. Whatever the case, Topeka has been fortunate to not have any serious injuries or deaths related to any of our celebrations. We want to keep it that way.
