Do-Dah Parade Application

The “Do‐Dah Parade” is Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 11 am. The parade is 41 years old and has been a tradition of laughter and a bit of “silliness” as companies and organizations take to the street to make a satire something people can laugh and remember. What is a satire? It’s a spoof or imitating something funny or taking what you do as a business and turning it into something people can laugh about. It is about promoting business and service opportunities.
Do‐Dah Parade has been a tradition for 41 years. It started in 1984, when WKMI organizers designed the parade as a way for companies and organizations to provide unique entertainment through a parody and host a parade that wasn’t “stuffy.” The purpose remains the same – create the un‐structured, spontaneous, and totally hilarious parade. Each year, participants are challenged to reinvigorate the meaning of “Do‐Dah” (a satire based on an ironic and iconic use of a person, place, event or thing).
The theme for this year is:
"Once Upon a Time!"
We encourage you to shamelessly promote your business.
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The Parade is Saturday, June 7, 2025. The entrance fee is $70 for non-profits and $85 for for-profits.
Please complete this application by May 16th.
Applications will be accepted after May 16th but placement will be at the end of the parade (with Santa).
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Please make sure to download a copy of the original application that includes instructions, guidelines, important things to know, and deadlines.

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* 1. Kalamazoo Do-Dah Parade Application

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* 2. Facebook page URL:

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* 3. If you have participated in the past, please list your previous years participation.

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* 4. Stated Satire:

Please describe below, in one sentence or less, the significance of your unit (units must be visibly pleasing and incorporate a unique satire). In order to be remembered and use the parade as a way to promote your business, your unit must be decorated, the people in your unit wearing a costume, and a banner to promote your business. Parade units should incorporate their theme (satire or "Once Upon a Time!") to their decorations, music, and costumes. If you choose to go down the Once Upon a Time route, please make sure your idea ties in with your business! The parade is themed from beginning to end with the best units specifically placed for the highest exposure.

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* 5. Parade Unit Description

Unit placement is strategically determined based on the Unit Connection to the satire theme and its entertainment value. Please note that if there are changes to the information below, it is the responsibility of the organizer to inform Parade officials. Floats will be lined up on Portage Street.

Please note that a trailer is considered a "float" so if you're using a trailer- please list that below by checking the Float/Trailer box.

Please mark all that apply to your entry:

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* 6. Is your business/ organization a non-profit?

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