2024 Electric Light Parade Call for Entries

The Parks & Recreation Department is excited to announce we are now accepting entries for lighted floats to participate in the Electric Light Parade that honors Independence Day. This year's parade theme is "Rockin' in the USA!" 

The parade will begin at 9 p.m. Wednesday, July 3, at Apodaca Park, 801 E. Madrid Avenue. It will travel south on Solano Drive, east on Hadley Avenue, and end around Maag Softball Complex. 

Commercial and non-commercial groups, organizations, car or motorcycle clubs are encouraged to participate in the parade and themed-float competition. Local judges rate floats on uniqueness, effective use of lights (at least 75% needs to be decorated), depiction of theme, and special effects. There are no entry fees, and some restrictions apply.

Trophies will be awarded based on commercial or non-commercial categories, first through third place in the commercial and non-commercial categories and the overall "Best Float" Trophy.

To begin the application process, please submit an online entry here.

After entry submission, Parks & Recreation staff will send you further instructions with an application packet. Please keep in mind, each group will have to attend a mandatory parade meeting to review parade guidelines and provide liability waivers for each participant. Meeting attendance and waivers must be submitted no later than Friday, June 14, by 4 p.m.

For more information, call the Frank O'Brien Papen Center at 575 541-2454.