FAQ

Absolutely. Neenah tarps may be placed for the fireworks beginning July 3rd at 5:00pm. No tarps over picnic tables or park benches. Please leave the boardwalk and sidewalks clear for pedestrians. Tarps that are placed before 5:00pm may be removed so please respect these rules. Menasha Tarps may not be placed until July 4th.

Our celebration is founded on the efforts of many volunteers and community organizations as well as corporate sponsors. We’re able to take advantage of the beautiful parks across Neenah & Menasha to hold many events in multiple locations over the course of these two days.

Almost all of the events and activities are absolutely free. There will be vendors with novelty items, food, and beverages for sale.

Far too many to list here! Check the Festival Events page for a full schedule.

On-street parking is the recommended location to park at both sites. Please note that the roads in both parks are closed to traffic as is Wisconsin Ave. from Pine St. to N. Park Ave. in Neenah.

 

ADA parking is available behind Jefferson School and on Wisconsin Ave.

PARADE 101
What is it? The Parade of Lights is a Neenah/Menasha parade held at night with all units lit up. Anyone can enter. There is no entry fee. The theme is “Patriotism on Parade”.

How do we get started? Form a team. Think about people you like to have fun with. Enter with your church group. Enter with an organization you support. Enter with your co-workers to promote your business or place of work. You can even enter with friends and neighbors!

What do we need? You can enter a float or march as a group. For floats, think about cars, pick-up trucks and trailers…anything on wheels. Think of a Patriotic theme and Decorate – Decorate – Decorate!

Do we need to use lights? Yes! The parade is at night, street lights will be off. Glow sticks and glow jewelry work really well for walking units. Floats and vehicles can use Christmas lights, spot lights or rope lights. These may need to be connected to a generator.

Where can we get a generator? You can get a generator from CommunityFest, at no charge, if you sign up by May 29 (first come first served). The generators are 2000 watt (16 amp capacity).

How about music? Music is highly encouraged! Live music is always a hit, but recorded music works great too!

What can we win? 1st, 2nd & 3rd place overall winners will receive a cash prize! Plus bragging rights Winners will be announced on July 4 in the parks.

How are we judged? Judging is based on Originality, Patriotism and Use of Lights.

What is the Parade Route? See the map on the other side.

Any restrictions? Yes. Floats cannot be higher than 14 feet. Candy can be handed out, but NOT thrown from vehicles or floats.

How do we sign up? Click here for a parade registration packet.

Contact us if you have any questions or want to find out more about the events!