Be Part of the Tradition
Whether you are marching to honor our nation’s history, showcasing a local cause, or debuting a hand-crafted float, this is your chance to take center stage. As we prepare for the 2026 National Sestercentennial (250th Anniversary), we invite you to bring your best red, white, and blue spirit to the streets!
Who Can Participate?
- Floats: Local businesses, non-profits, and neighborhood groups.
- Marching Groups: Veterans’ organizations, scouts, and civic clubs.
- Classic & Custom Vehicles: Antique cars, fire trucks, and unique local transport.
- Political Representatives: Elected officials and candidates (non-partisan spirit encouraged).
- Equestrian & Animal Entries: Please note specific safety and cleanup requirements apply.
Float Design & Safety Guide
To navigate the historic streets of Southampton Village safely:
- Maximum Width: 12 feet.
- Maximum Height: 13.5 feet (to clear overhead utility lines and trees).
- Stability: All decorative elements must be securely fastened to withstand wind and movement.
- Handrails: Any float with standing participants must have sturdy handrails or safety “grab points.”
- Fire Safety: All floats must carry at least one 2A-10BC fire extinguisher. Decorative materials (crepe paper, hay, fabrics) should be treated with fire-retardant spray.
- Exhaust: Ensure the towing vehicle’s exhaust pipe is clear of all decorations to prevent fires.
For the safety of our youngest spectators:
- Strictly Prohibited: Throwing candy, beads, or flyers from a moving float.
- The Alternative: You may have walkers alongside your float hand-delivering items to the crowd at the curb.
- Visibility: Drivers must have a clear 180-degree view. If decorations obstruct the view, you must have a spotter walking alongside the vehicle with a two-way radio.
- Communication: Drivers must remain with the vehicle at all times once staged.
Since 2026 is the Sestercentennial, we encourage floats to depict moments in Southampton’s history—from its founding in 1640 to its role in the American Revolution and its evolution today.
Parade Participant Application
Be Part of the Tradition
Whether you are marching to honor our nation’s history, showcasing a local cause, or debuting a hand-crafted float, this is your chance to take center stage. As we prepare for the 2026 National Sestercentennial (250th Anniversary), we invite you to bring your best red, white, and blue spirit to the streets!
Who Can Participate?
- Floats: Local businesses, non-profits, and neighborhood groups.
- Marching Groups: Veterans’ organizations, scouts, and civic clubs.
- Classic & Custom Vehicles: Antique cars, fire trucks, and unique local transport.
- Political Representatives: Elected officials and candidates (non-partisan spirit encouraged).
- Equestrian & Animal Entries: Please note specific safety and cleanup requirements apply.
Float Design & Safety Guide
To navigate the historic streets of Southampton Village safely:
- Maximum Width: 12 feet.
- Maximum Height: 13.5 feet (to clear overhead utility lines and trees).
- Stability: All decorative elements must be securely fastened to withstand wind and movement.
- Handrails: Any float with standing participants must have sturdy handrails or safety “grab points.”
- Fire Safety: All floats must carry at least one 2A-10BC fire extinguisher. Decorative materials (crepe paper, hay, fabrics) should be treated with fire-retardant spray.
- Exhaust: Ensure the towing vehicle’s exhaust pipe is clear of all decorations to prevent fires.
For the safety of our youngest spectators:
- Strictly Prohibited: Throwing candy, beads, or flyers from a moving float.
- The Alternative: You may have walkers alongside your float hand-delivering items to the crowd at the curb.
- Visibility: Drivers must have a clear 180-degree view. If decorations obstruct the view, you must have a spotter walking alongside the vehicle with a two-way radio.
- Communication: Drivers must remain with the vehicle at all times once staged.
Since 2026 is the Sestercentennial, we encourage floats to depict moments in Southampton’s history—from its founding in 1640 to its role in the American Revolution and its evolution today.
