PARADE ENTRY APPLICATIONS OPEN IN OCTOBER
Before applying to be in the parade, please note:
All walking/marching groups must be physically capable of walking the entire parade route and back, which is roughly 3 miles roundtrip. There are no return shuttles. Please plan accordingly.
Local organizations, businesses, individuals, or families who are interested in walking, marching, performing, or creating a float for the parade must follow the steps below:
STEP 1. Apply! - Applications for 2026 will open in late October.
Entry fees:
$100 for businesses
$25 for individuals and not-for-profit organizations such as school groups, churches, community organizations, etc.
Please call Network at 972-234-8880 ext. 106 for assistance if:
- Your organization must pay by check
- You complete the application and do not receive a confirmation email receipt
When applying, you must select a DIVISION and UNIT type for your group:
| DIVISION |
DESCRIPTION |
| Float |
A float/trailer pulled by a truck or other vehicle |
| Vehicle |
A group of decorated cars, trucks, vans, or other motorized vehicles. |
|
Marching/
Walking
|
Unit is marching or walking. May include a sound only vehicle with unit. |
| Animal |
A group of primarily animals. |
| UNIT TYPE |
DESCRIPTION |
| Youth |
A group of primarily children that is not tied to a school (scouts, YMCA, etc.) |
| School Club/Organization |
A club/organization that is based at a school (School band, school dance team, etc.) |
| Civic Clubs/Organizations & Individuals |
A civic club or service organization not for profit (Car clubs, Rotary Club) or an individual or family unaffiliated with an organization |
| Church/Religious Organization |
Churches and religious groups |
| Business Commercial |
Businesses, commercial, for-profit groups |
STEP 2. By applying to be in the parade, you agree to abide by the Parade Rules. Please be sure to read thoroughly, share with all members of your groups, and ensure all participants understand them. All groups must adhere to these rules and may be removed from the parade line-up if rules are broken.
STEP 3. Deliver donation of new, unwrapped toy(s).
Multiple toy donations are encouraged for groups. Please no skateboards, bicycles, or scooters. These toys are donated to Network of Community Ministries for families and children in need this holiday season.
Drop off location: Heights Recreation Center 711 W Arapaho Road, Richardson, TX 75080
Hours of Operation: Mon-Thu: 6am-10pm, Fri: 6am-9pm, Sat: 8am-5pm, & Sun: 11am-5pm
STEP 4. Submit proof of insurance, if applicable. All entries using motorized vehicles in the parade must provide valid, unaltered proof of insurance for each vehicle. A pdf or photo of your insurance card is acceptable.
Questions?
Please contact margaret.trame@cor.gov.
All toys and fees collected are donations to benefit the NETWORK of Community Ministries and may be tax deductible.
