EXCITING NEWS!
\nThis year\, \;Independence Day Celebration \;is having \;a \;Parade Contest \;with multiple categories \;to add an extra layer of fun and competition. You now have the opportunity to not only make your entry exceptional but also win fantastic prizes! Here are the contest categories:\n\n

\n\n

1. \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \;Best Theme Interpretation: \;Share your creativity by aligning your entry with this year&rsquo\;s theme. The most imaginative and inspiring interpretation will take home the prize.

\n\n

2. \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \;Most Interactive entry: \;Engage the crowd like never before! The entry that encourages the most audience interaction and participation will be recognized.

\n\n

3. \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \; \;Outstanding Performance: \;If your entry includes music\, dance\, or any form of entertainment\, this is your chance to shine. The most captivating and memorable performance will be awarded.

\n\n

These contest categories are designed to inspire and motivate you to make your entry truly outstanding. We want this year to be engaging and patriotic! With that being said\, in order to do that we need your help. It will be a requirement to decorate on theme this year so please keep that in mind before registering. \;

\n\n

To ensure the parade remains a vibrant and engaging event for everyone\, we have decided to limit the number of participants to \;80 entries \;through an application process. As well as we are limiting 1 vehicle per entry. If you desire to have more than one you will have to register twice. If you have smaller recreational vehicles \;please email events@oakharborchamber.com to work out details. This will help us maintain a parade duration of approximately 2 hours\, allowing for a memorable experience for our community. \;
\n \;

\n\n

Participants are welcome to campaign while walking in the parade\, including carrying signs such as "\;Vote For"\; messages. However\, all other political messaging is not permitted. \;All entries must remain on theme with the parade and be respectful to all individuals and groups. Thank you for helping us create a positive and inclusive event for everyone!

\n\n

\;
\nOur goal is to create lasting memories\; we believe that by taking these steps will impact our community and visitors.

\n\n

Thank you for being a vital part of our Independence Day Celebration. We look forward to seeing your incredible entry and celebrating our nation&rsquo\;s freedom together.
\n
\nAPPLICATION PROCESS: \;
\nApply now through June 5th\, 2026. Start your planning now.
\nJune 10th \;- \;those applicant that are approved will be announced &\; invoices will be sent.
\nJune 21 \;- \;payments &\; scripts are due\; email scripts to Events@OakHarborChamber.com.
\nJune 28th \;- \;parade instructions &\; line up will be announced.
\n
\nParade Fees Chamber Members \;Receive 15% off
\nNonprofit Member: \;$28
\nMember: \;$35
\n\;Nonprofit Non-Member: $40
\nNon-Member for Profit: \;$50
\nPolitical: $65
\nSchool Groups: \;Free \;
\nEntry Dimensions \;- Entries can be no wider than 12 feet wide due to the route going down Pioneer Way.
\n
\nScripts \;- Scripts are what the emcee will read at the grandstand at the end of the parade. These need to be 100 words or less and emailed no later than June \;21 \;to Events@OakHarborChamber.com.
\n
\nCertificates of Liability (COI) \;- COIs are to insure the entities for any accidents that may occur during the event. Please have Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce and \;City of Oak Harbor as additionally insured.