Frequently Asked Questions
Are we supposed to dress up/decorate for the parade?
Get festive! We will hand out flags and have some fun activities to get decked out for the parade, but we encourage you to wear red, white, and blue. Get creative - check out photo albums from previous years.
Are adults allowed to be in the parade?
We encourage kids of all ages to participate in the parade, knowing that the parade is geared toward youth. Grandparents, parents, and friends, are allowed to accompany their children in the parade. If you are young at heart and meet the spirit of the parade, join in on the fun!
Are cars allowed to be in the parade?
While most participants walk, ride their bike or ride in a stroller, a few participants decorate their golf cart, riding lawn mower, tractor or convertible car. All motorized vehicles should line up on Layton Avenue next to the Lake Elmo Inn Event Center (right side of the street). Please look for signage to direct you.
Where should we park?
If you are able to walk or bike to the parade area, we encourage you to do so. If you need to drive and park, please reference the detailed map for suggested parking spots designated by the navy blue truck. Thank you to the Lake Elmo Inn and Christ Lutheran Church for the use of their parking lots.
Can businesses sponsor a float in the parade?
The Lake Elmo Kids Parade has been around for 36 years and will continue to be focused on kids. Floats, handouts, and signage promoting businesses/organizations and political interests are not allowed. If you are looking for an opportunity in the future to promote your business or organization in Lake Elmo, please consider applying for Lake Elmo Night Out in August, or Light Up Lake Elmo in December. A few businesses sponsor 4th of July pre- and post-Activities, so please contact us to see if this is a good fit in the future.
What if there is inclement weather?
We will watch the weather closely and communicate updates beginning as early as the afternoon of July 3rd. Any and all updates will be communicated via the Connect Lake Elmo Facebook page and this website (4th of July Event Page). We will also work with the City of Lake Elmo and partner agencies to spread the word about any updates to the event. Look for the Connect Lake Elmo - Information tent in the Old Fire Station parking lot.