What is a fair parade?
A fair parade is a procession that may include marching bands, floats, antique tractors, horses, fair royalty, youth groups and local businesses and clubs. Some fairs hold one on opening day and others hold several. The route, schedule and lineup are set by the organizer.
Check the official page for the date, start time and route, because they change from year to year.
Many parades honor local people, such as veterans, fair queens or longtime volunteers. If you hear a name you do not know, ask a neighbor. It is a chance to learn local history.
How do you find a good viewing spot?
Arrive early, since the best spots near the start or the main stand fill first. Look for shade and a view of a corner or a gap in the crowd where you can see well. Do not set up chairs in the street before the route is open if staff tell you not to.
Bring folding chairs or blankets only where allowed, and be considerate about blocking views for those behind you.
Check road closures and parking before you go, because parades can close streets near the fairgrounds. The fair or the town posts these notices. Walk the route beforehand if you can, so that you know where restrooms, shade and accessible curb cuts are. Parade routes can be long, and it helps to know where to go if a child needs a break.
- Arrive early for good views
- Choose shade if you can
- Follow rules for chairs and tents
- Bring water and sun protection
What should you expect from the parade?
Expect music, applause and often candy tossed from floats, though policies on candy vary by community. Keep children back from the curb and wait until the candy lands. Floats and animals move slowly, but they can be unpredictable.
The parade may stop and start, and it may last longer than you expect. Plan for breaks.
If candy or small gifts are thrown, make sure small children do not put them in their mouths until you have checked them. Small items can be a choking hazard. Many parades have an announcer who names each group as it passes. Listening gives children context, and the program or the fair's page may include a list of entries.
How do you watch with young children?
Set a meeting point, and keep a hand on little ones. Children may be frightened by loud bands, costumed characters or large animals. Hearing protection and a quiet area help. A short stay is fine.
Teach children to stay behind the line and never run into the street, even for candy.
Bring a small bag with water, wipes and a snack, and give children something quiet to do while waiting for the start. If the day is hot, bring a hat and a cold drink, and rest in the shade when you can. The CDC offers heat safety information, and the first aid station can help if someone feels unwell.
What about horses, animals and floats?
Horses and other animals in parades are trained for crowds, but they can still be startled. Give them space, keep your voice calm and never touch them without permission from the owner.
Farm equipment and floats are heavy. Stay behind barriers and away from wheels.
Horse-drawn wagons, mounted groups and antique tractors are part of local heritage. Ask the owners about their animals or machines at a calm moment after the parade. Keep dogs at home unless the organizer says pets are welcome. Bands, sirens and crowds can frighten them.
How can you enjoy the parade if you have accessibility needs?
Contact the fair office or the local organizer about accessible viewing areas, parking and drop-off locations. Some parades reserve space near the route, but arrangements vary.
The ADA information site explains accessibility rights in public settings. If you need a quiet viewing spot, ask staff where one is.
Sign language interpretation or other support may be available if you ask in advance. Contact the organizer early.
How can you take part in a parade?
Clubs, schools, youth groups and local businesses often join parades. Ask the organizer how to apply, what the deadlines are and what rules apply to floats, vehicles and animals. Requirements are set by the parade committee.
If you are on a float, follow safety instructions and keep a clear line of sight for the driver.
Thank volunteers and officers who manage the route. It takes many hands to make the parade run.
Key takeaways
- Parade details are set by the organizer, so check the official page.
- Arrive early, choose shade and keep children back from the curb.
- Give animals space and avoid touching them without permission.
- Ask the fair office about accessible viewing.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the County Fair & Rodeo Guide Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.