free event & tons of fun for all

free event & tons of fun for all

  • Parade & Post-Parade celebration info

    IMPORTANT!

    2026 Grand Marshal: The Honorable Judge Penny Brown Reynolds, Ph.D.

    Parade Line-Up Location:

    Parade Route: 1551 Phoenix Boulevard to 5517 West Fayetteville Road

    Grandstand Viewing Area:

    Vendor Fair/Kids’ Zone: 12 PM - 3 PM

    Music on the Lawn: 12 PM - 3 PM

    Join the Parade: REGISTER HERE

    Registration Closes: January 12 at 5 PM

  • Parade map

Rules

1.

Parking in designated area only for drop offs!

2.

Distribution or throwing of merchandise or articles by any participant is allowed along the parade route. This includes candy, trinkets, and community friendly items only please.

3.

Each group or participant must have a leader at the parade site by 8:30 a.m. to assist your group.

4.

Please know your assigned entry # upon check in. (see attachment for entry)

5.

To ensure a smooth and continuous flow of the parade, all performances must be moving performances only. We kindly ask that each group limit their featured moment in front of the Grandstand to 30–45 seconds maximum. This allows every participant the opportunity to shine while keeping the celebration enjoyable for all spectators.

Groups that stop or do not remain in motion will be promptly directed forward by parade marshals to maintain parade timing and safety. Please note that failure to follow these guidelines may impact award eligibility and/or future parade invitations.

We appreciate your cooperation and professionalism. Thank you.

6.

Please remind supporters to gather at the announcement areas for awards.

7.

Music: Community oriented music. No profanity or suggestive attire allowed.

8.

Parade judging will begin promptly upon group arrival. Please prepare for moving performance.

Specialty Awards 2026

Trophies will be awarded for:

*FAMILY MARCH FOR HUMAN RIGHTS AWARD (2)

Winner & 1st Runner-Up

 

*CORPORATE IMPACT AWARD (2)

Winner & 1st Runner-Up

 

*COMMUNITY & SERVICE AWARD (2)

Winner & 1st Runner-Up

 

*BEST PERFORMANCE AWARD (2)

Winner & 1st Runner-Up

 

*FAVORITE FLOAT Award (2)

Winner & 1st Runner-Up

 

*BEST FAMILY VEHICLE SHOWCASE (2)

Winner & 1st Runner-Up

*MLK DAY OVERALL WINNER

Highest total score

Crowd Favorite & Judges' Choice

Receives the LARGE GRAND TROPHY

Honored as Grand Marshal(s) for 2026

Special recognition at the College Park Mayor & City Council Meeting (Date TBD)

 

Judging Criteria:

Cultural Relevance

Creativity

Community Impact

Presentation & Style

Crowd Response

 

How to Win:

Bring passion.

Bring purpose.

Move with meaning.