Parade Floats
Seeing the unique floats are a fun and exciting part of any parade. If you are considering building a parade float, you may feel overwhelmed. With a little bit of information and the right materials, it can be quite a simple process. Before you start making your float, thoroughly read all the guidelines and entry requirements. Nothing is more disappointed than completing your float than to discover it doesn’t meet the parade requirements so it can’t be entered. Find out about entry fees, deadlines, methods of transporting the float, and safety requirements. You may also want to find out if the parade has a particular theme to help you decide how to decorate.
You will need to start with the foundation for your float. Often, this is some type of flat bed trailer. The size and shape can vary, but you need to decide what you will be working with, and then fit your design around the foundation layout. Let your organization know you will be working on a float, and ask for anyone interested to sign up or come to a meeting, specifying the time and location. It is important that those who will be working on the float have a say in the design. It is a great motivator to get them to work on it! Let everyone think about it for a while, and then start writing down ideas. After all the ideas have been taken, discuss them. Then vote on what the majority wants to build. It may even be a combination of one or more ideas that were presented. If you have enough people, you can divide into smaller groups, each focusing on a particular piece of the overall project.
The materials needed for a parade float vary depending on the design you are going to build. Most are made of cardboard, paint, various props, lights, music, and a variety of other items. If you are on a limited budget, consider having people donate items. Many businesses will assist with the donation of some paint or similar product. You can also use rummage items that aren’t being used for any other purpose.
Building a parade float can be hard work, and challenging at times. It can also be a lot of fun building and designing it, as well as working with other people. It will be well worth it when you see the smiles on the faces of those watching as your float drifts down the parade path.
