BLOOMINGTON – The City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department and Downtown Bloomington Inc. are accepting entries from local businesses and organizations for the Independence Day Reverse Parade until June 11.
The Reverse Parade takes place on Saturday, July 3 from 10 a.m. until noon. Spectator admission is free.
The Reverse Parade, a concept conceived during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizes both patriotism and safety for all parade participants, viewers, volunteers, and staff. Parade entries, which will include floats, bands, musical groups, classic cars, emergency vehicles, and more, will remain stationary while parade-goers bicycle or drive vehicles past them.
Bloomington Parks and Recreation is grateful for the assistance and cooperation of Indiana University, who agreed to allow the Reverse Parade to take place in the Purple Lot at IU’s Memorial Stadium. The Parks and Recreation Department is working closely with IU Facilities, as well as the IU and City police departments, to ensure the smooth flow of traffic during the Reverse Parade.
“Plans for this year’s Reverse Parade have been months in the making,” said Bill Ream, community events coordinator with the Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department. “We are so appreciative of the ongoing partnership with Downtown Bloomington Inc. and with our new presenting partners, IU Facilities and WGCL Radio, and our sponsor the IU Credit Union. The Reverse Parade is a new venture for our city and we appreciate all the businesses and organizations that are participating in this innovative community event!”
Entry fee to participate in the parade is $15 for a small entry space, and $20 for a large entry space. Registration is limited to the first 50 applicants. Deadline to apply to be a part of the parade is June 11 at 5 p.m. Registration materials and complete parade rules can be obtained from the Parks and Recreation Web site at bloomington.in.gov/parks/events/fourth-of-july-parade or by contacting Bill Ream at 812.349.3748 or reamw@bloomington.in.gov.
Awards will be presented in the following categories: Best Youth Entry, Best Overall Entry, Best Vehicle, Best Float, and the Keith Kline Spirit Award. Judging will take place at 9:30 a.m., and awards will be presented at the event.
