Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Sarasota Holiday Parade
Annual holiday parade with community entries and festive floats.
About
Experience the magic of Sarasota's 29th Annual Holiday Parade, a cherished community tradition. This vibrant event showcases creative floats, marching bands, and festive entries, all celebrating the holiday spirit. It's a spectacular display of community pride and seasonal cheer, perfect for families and residents to enjoy together.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, community members
Vibe
Festive, traditional, community-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High
Special Events & Promotions
- Sponsorship opportunities available
- Donations accepted to support the parade tradition
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
$$
Duration
Event day
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Sarasota
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Sarasota Holiday Celebration Inc.
Practical Information
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (except for registered parade animals with clean-up crew)
Tips & Advice
- Ensure your parade entry strictly adheres to the holiday theme, as this is a key judging criterion for overall show value.
- Familiarize yourself with the insurance requirements well in advance, as proof of insurance is mandatory for all participants.
- Review the specific entry types (motorized, walkers, or combined) to select the one that best fits your group's participation plan.
- Note that handing out items like candy, flyers, or coupons along the parade route is prohibited for safety and cleanliness.
- If your entry includes animals, be prepared to provide a dedicated clean-up crew to manage waste along the route and in the staging area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the entry deadlines for the parade?
Online entry registration closes promptly at 11:59 p.m. on October 10th. All entry fees must be paid by this date, and no late entries will be accepted.
What are the insurance requirements for participants?
Proof of insurance is mandatory. Entries with motorized vehicles need $1 million in general liability and automobile liability. Walkers-only entries require general liability. Specific endorsement pages naming Sarasota Holiday Celebration Inc. as an Additional Insured are also required.
Can I hand out items to spectators during the parade?
No, handing out items such as candy, flyers, coupons, or any other materials is prohibited along the parade route.
Are there any restrictions on costumes or themes?
All entries must incorporate the holiday theme. No participants, except for the official Santa Claus float, may dress as Santa Claus. Political, religious, or social issue themes are not permitted.
How are parade entries judged?
Judging criteria include appearance, originality, style, presentation, adherence to rules and theme, organization, and timely arrival. Winners are announced on the event's website and Facebook page.
