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03/03/2025
Apply to be in a Big E Parade! The Big Parade application is now live! You can access it at https://www.thebige.com/paradeapplication
The deadline to apply is Friday, June 27.
Participation categories include the following:
· Marching Band with Cheerleaders, Color Guard and/or Drill Team
· Color Guard
· Antique, Classic, Custom or Collector Vehicle
· Specialty Float
· Costumed Character
· Performance Group
· Trolley
Things to Know:
Eastern States Exposition’s (ESE) Trolley is primarily reserved for guests associated with The Big E’s Special & State Days, plus individuals and organizations that align with the core mission of ESE (e.g., 4-H, FFA).
Special & State Days participation is limited to the categories listed above—no exceptions.
Applications are prioritized for those directly associated with respective dates on the schedule (e.g., Hartford High School Marching Band on Connecticut Day).
Participant selection is at the sole discretion of The Big Parade officials.
A limited number of applicants will be selected to participate per day.
ESE remains dedicated to prioritizing quality, rather than quantity, to elevate our fairgoers’ experience and deliver excellence in entertainment programming.
ESE strives to accommodate applicants on their preferred dates; however not all requests can be fulfilled.
ESE does their best to align participants with the appropriate Special & State Days; however, due to parade length limitations, each category has a set number of slots per day.
Applying early does not guarantee a specific date, as selections are made to ensure a well-balanced program across all 17 days.
The Big Parade is one of the most prominent attractions at the Fair. The contingent of marching bands, antique vehicles and authentic Mardi Gras floats pass by thousands of onlookers who line the route, daily.
