Applications Open for Float Participation
The City and County of Schenectady are already feeling the holiday spirit and merrily announcing the theme of this year’s 54th Annual Holiday Parade to take place on Saturday, November 18, 2023, as New York State of Mind.
Applications are open now for the Northeast’s largest nighttime parade for groups to participate with their most clever and state-doting themed floats. Each group will have an opportunity to perform for 45 seconds in front of the reviewing stand which will be in front of Proctors Theatre on State Street. Last year over 115 organizations participated.
“With fall in the air we are already counting down the days to the 54th Annual Holiday Parade and the kickoff of the holiday season!” said Anthony Jasenski, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “We can’t wait to see how the community unleashes their creativity with this year’s ‘New York State of Mind’ theme.”
"We are thrilled to announce the return of the 54th Annual Holiday Parade to Downtown Schenectady," Mayor Gary McCarthy said. "This iconic event has long been an annual highlight in Schenectady, offering our residents and visitors a wonderful opportunity to come together with family, kick off the holiday season, and show their support for our local restaurants and businesses as they take part in this joyous occasion."
“The holiday parade is a fun time for families, for participants, and for the entire community,” said Schenectady County Legislator Cathy Gatta, Chair of the Tourism, Arts and Special Events Committee. “The more than 15,000 visitors that make their way to downtown will not only take in a parade, but they’ll also have a front row seat to the businesses and attractions Schenectady County has to offer year-round.”
The event is scheduled to step off at 5:00 p.m. on November 18, 2023, in downtown Schenectady. The Holiday Parade is produced under the leadership of the City and County of Schenectady, and in partnership with the Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation, The Capital Region Chamber, and Discover Schenectady.
Applications are available at https://www.schenectadycountyny.gov/special-events/holiday-parade. Entrance fees are $100 or $75 for non-profit organizations. Applications and fees must be submitted or postmarked no later than October 27, 2023. Online payment will be available for the first time this year.
Visit https://www.schenectadycountyny.gov/county-calendar for the latest information about Schenectady County events.