CCFC is proud to announce we are returning all events and going back to original start times of morning events.
2026 Grand Marshal: TJ Blakeman President of Champaign County History Museum.
Check out the articles below about the 2026 Grand Marshal
https://www.champaigncountyhistory.org
2026 Theme: America Celebrates 250 Years
Everyone loves a parade, whether it’s for the floats, marching bands, or nostalgia of the red, white, and blue. Parade participants and onlookers can look forward to a great parade lineup and viewing under the shade, all along Kirby Avenue, South First Street, and South Fourth Street. Bring your blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy.
The parade begins at 11:05AM in E-14 at First and Kirby Ave. It continues East on Kirby Ave/Florida Ave to Lincoln Ave then proceeds North on Lincoln Ave to Illinois St and then, Ends in The Parking lot of ISR.
Potty houses will be location throughout the parade route, Along with food vendors.
Parade Route (2026) To Be Updated
Register
THE PARADE APPLICATION WILL BE LIVE SOON
No Candy can be thrown, it must be handed to the recipient, No Water Guns are allowed, If caught throwing candy or spraying water, you will be asked to leave and could result in lost of parade entry for following year! This is a safety rule to ensure everyone is safe.
It’s now easier to join in the festivities. The parade application is now online. Pay the registration fee and complete the form in just a few simple steps! Please note that a list of registered participants will be provided to local media organizations covering the parade. Your registration is not confirmed until you have received a confirmation email that will come within 3 business days of submitting. Please direct questions regarding parade application and rules to Marie Polk- Parade Chair. Any questions or concerns contact us at ccfcparade@gmail.com
Deadline
Parade entries need to be postmarked by 6/23, or submitted virtually by 7/3. Parade line-up and staging assignments will be sent out by 6/30 at 5pm. No line-up requests will be accepted. If mailing the entry form, the fee must be included with the application. The Parade Chair has the sole discretion of accepting entries after June 30, 2026.
Parade Line up 2026 (Subject to Change at anytime)
Fees
Online application requires payment via credit or debit card. If mailing in application, make checks payable to Champaign County Freedom Celebration and include late fee, if applicable. Returned checks will be subject to a $20.00 returned check fee. In Subject line Write Parade Fee.
Political – $100
Business/ For-Profit Organization – $50
Not-For-Profit Organization/ Individual Entry – $30
Veterans ( VFW AMVETS) – $25
