Parades

Managing risk at parades

Preparing floats and participating in parades can be a fun way to promote 4-H, but there are risks associated with these activities. 

Expectations if participating in a parade

1. A float must be towed by a vehicle (car, truck, off road vehicle or tractor) in a parade.

   • It must be driven by a Minnesota 4-H Volunteer 21 years of age or older, with a valid driver’s license.

   • The towing vehicle must be insured and all insurance follows the towing vehicle.

2. To distribute candy or other items during a parade, 4-H members or adults must walk along the float to hand items to people watching the parade.  Items cannot be thrown by the 4-H members from the float or from a horse.

3. 4-H members riding a float or walking alongside cannot:

   • Jump on or off a moving float.

   • Spray water or other fluids at spectators.

   • Have legs hanging over side of the float. 

4. Dogs or other animals must be on a leash or haltered and kept a distance from spectators.

5. Horse in parades:

   • The horse must be ridden by a 4-H member or Minnesota 4-H volunteer. Friends or youth who are not members of 4-H may not ride a horse in a parade representing  4-H. 

   • Only one person can be on a horse; no double riders.

   • The horse must be controlled through the use of bridle and reins.

6. Talk with the Local Extension Educator regarding the Cloverbud Leader Guide before including Cloverbuds in any parade activities.

Contact

Pat Morreim, program manager, morre002@umn.edu, 763-427-5428