Sign-ups to join the Owensboro People’s Parade have been extended to Dec. 7, and event officials announced that local veterans will be the grand marshals for the community-run event.
The parade will still be Dec. 18 at 4:30 p.m. and will make its way down 2nd Street true to tradition. There are already more than 50 floats signed up, but Sarah Barnes, coordinator of float sign-ups, said there are 39 confirmed registrations.
Barnes said that the extension was given after a large number of people were interested and had not yet completed the registration papers.
“I would just like to see as many people as possible and I want to make this the biggest parade we’ve seen,” Barnes said.
There is a cost to register a float in the parade depending on the size. To reserve a spot for a float and learn more, Barnes said to message her at 270-315-3960 to ensure the request is not overlooked.
Along with the deadline change, the planning committee announced that Owensboro veterans are the grand marshals for the parade.
“We, as a community, would like to honor your sacrifices by offering you a chance to walk with your fellow veterans,” the committee said.
Those interested in joining the grand marshals can call Derek Van Tuyl at 270-315-0910.
Now that they are nearing the day of the parade, they are opening the door to food vendors to sign up to set up a station along the route. Any business would like to help provide food for the guests watching can contact Lisa Aull at 270-929-0922.
Erich Stranger said that regarding any excess funds raised, the committee voted to create a nonprofit to bring the community more events like the parade and it will receive 75% and donate 25% to My Sister’s Keeper.