Applications are being accepted for those interested in participating or volunteering at this year’s Ocala Christmas Parade.
The deadline to apply for this year’s parade is October 27, according to the Friends of the Christmas Parade organization.
This year’s parade, which is themed after “Christmas Around the World,” is scheduled to take place at 5:30 p.m. on December 9, 2023. A grand marshal has not yet been announced for the event.
There are a variety of ways to participate in the 2023 Ocala Christmas Parade, including creation of a float. Floats in years past have been comprised of decorated trailers pulled by trucks, flatbed trucks, or other towed units.
In addition to floats, motorized units such as cars, trucks, and motorcycles may also participate in the parade, as well as costumed walkers, drill teams, and other marching units. Community and marching bands from public and private schools may also participate.
Making sure to include furry friends, the parade also allows for horses, dogs, and other animals to apply to participate, so long as they can keep the pace of the parade.
The parade will start at the intersection of SE 25th Avenue and Fort King Street, moving north to E Silver Springs Boulevard and proceeding west on the roadway. Upon reaching NE 8th Avenue, the parade will turn and head north up the roadway to NE 3rd Street, where the parade will come to an end.
For more information on the parade, or to apply to participate in this year’s festivities, visit the Ocala Christmas Parade Application webpage.