Line up for the 2026 Central Pennsylvania 250th Independence Day Parade will start at 10:00 AM on North and South Burrowes Street. The parade will step off at 11:00 AM Sharp and travel backwards up College Avenue for 6 blocks to the Shortlidge Road/Garner Street intersection.
The mission of the Independence Day Parade is to recognize and honor the Centre Region heroes and all activities in the parade should maintain this focus. The following rules and regulations are designed to help promote this mission:
The Parade Committee is the governing authority regarding parade issues and its decisions are final. This includes the committee's right to revise the placement of or remove any entry during line-up on parade day. Your unit is encouraged to display the American flag following all recognized guidelines. For additional information on this, go online to the US Flag Code.
Signs and banners carried or on floats should reflect the parade's “Independence Day Parade” theme. Example: “ABC Associates Honors Our Community Heroes.”
All entries must be in good taste, suitable for a family event and respectful of other entrants.
First priority for a spot in the parade will be given to groups who register by the deadline. Late registrations are not guaranteed a spot in the parade. To be guaranteed a spot in the parade, all entries must be received no later than June 22, 2026.
Elected Officials and candidates for public office are encouraged to participate in the parade as citizens only. Likewise, no participating individual or group may promote political agendas, wear campaign attire or distribute campaign material/literature. Independence Day is an American holiday – we put political differences aside and celebrate our great nation and the heroes it produces!
The use of drugs and alcohol by participants in the parade is strictly prohibited.
Vehicles must:
Units must keep pace with other entrants and maintain a distance of no less than 30 feet between each unit (2 car lengths).
Candy may be tossed on the ground in front of spectators. To prevent injury to spectators, please do not throw candy directly at them.
Your organization will be recognized on the Parade website and in the local paper “thank you” advertisement after the event.
Failure to comply with these requirements may result in removal from the parade and prohibition from participating in future events.
To register your group or organization in the parade, simply fill out the registration form. Please read and acknowledge you understand and accept the rules and regulations. You will need the following information:
Tip: Prepare a great description of your group – this will be read at the grandstand as you present to the spectators!
You will hear from our Parade Committee by June 30th. The parade will begin at 11 AM with main start on the 100 block of Burrowes Street. You will receive notification for your group prior to start.
Please email DJ Watkins, Parade Director, with parade questions at DJWatkins@FreedomRisingUSA.org
Thank you for participating to honor the local heroes of Central Pennsylvania.