STAGING: Saturday, December 5, 2026, between 8:30 and 9:30 AM!

What you need to know:

• The judges will be selecting one as the Best in Show. The organization with the winning Best In Show will be featured in the 2027 Southaven Magazine ($1,200 value). Winners will be notified by the Southaven Chamber of Commerce.
• Creative use of Christmas Theme is REQUIRED.
• Vehicle entry limits
  • Passenger-sized vehicle entry (with no float): limit two vehicles per organization
  • Oversized vehicle entry (truck, wrecker, etc.): limit one vehicle per organization
• Parade entry numbers will be issued during parade lineup.
• Family-friendly Christmas music may be played by parade entries. All other music is prohibited.
• EVERY PARADE ENTRY MUST HAVE AT LEAST TWO ADULT WALKERS (18+) TO MAINTAIN SAFETY.
• Gentle tossing of candy is allowed But is only to be tossed by the Adult walkers. No one on the float is permitted to toss candy.
• Patriotic theme is allowed, but political messages are prohibited.
• Late Arrivals will not be eligible for trophies, and may be excluded from the parade.
• Each parade entry will pause briefly for review in front of the judges’ stand across the street from Dale’s Restaurant. Music performances will be given up to 45 seconds to perform in front of the judges’ stand.
• All parade entries must clearly display their entry’s name on the front passenger side of the entry so that it is clearly visible to the judges.
• NO DANCERS OR WALKING GROUPS ALLOWED. With the exception of Approved High School Bands and Athletics. This is for safety purposes. Dancing groups may ride on a float like other organizations.
• NO SANTA OR MRS. CLAUS ON ANY FLOAT. Children may be confused and upset by multiple Santas.
• All participants must ride on a float. Exceptions: bands, marching, and adult(s) handing out candy (please toss candy GENTLY at spectators’ feet).
• All parade entry vehicles must be in good repair, licensed and insured, and driven by a licensed driver. Please include licensed driver’s name and contact info on application.

 DROP OFFS: Float riders, it is best to come in groups. You may be dropped off at the staging site. Watch for signs. There is no parking available at the staging site for the duration of the parade. Please make arrangements to drop off participants and then find parking elsewhere.