Applications Now Open for the Big Parade at the Big E

WEST SPRINGFIELD — Anyone interested in showcasing their group or organization in the Big Parade at the Big E is invited to fill out an application through thebige.com, now through June 27. The Big Parade winds around the fairgrounds daily at 6 p.m. during the fairtaking place Sept. 12-28.

The Big Parade features nine Mardi Gras floats, charming trolleys, a Clydesdale-drawn carriage, classic cars, a larger-than-life giant puppet, and more.

Parade participation is open to the following categories: color guards, marching bands, cheer teams, drill teams, custom/collector cars, specialty floats, costumed characters, trolleys, and performance groups.

While the Big E strives to accommodate applicants on their preferred dates, not all requests can be fulfilled. Organizers do their best to align participants with the appropriate special days and 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.

Tickets to participate in the Mardi Gras Reveler Experience, a highly anticipated tradition that allows fairgoers to board an authentic float constructed by New Orleans’s own Kern Companies, party, and toss beads to the cheering crowd, will go on sale to the public on Friday, Aug. 1.