Saturday, December 12, 2026Saturday, December 12, 2026
Float Guidelines
Riders are limited to one person per lineal foot of trailer length. All riders under 5 years of age must be properly restrained and accompanied by parent or guardian. Children under 3 years must be secured in a separate carrier or vehicle child safety seat. For children 4 through 5 years, a separate carrier, safety seat or safety belt may be used. These are the State of Florida DOT rules on a state road or highway.
Walkers with a float unit are limited to a maximum of 10 and must be over 12 years of age and in costume as part of the float presentation.
Total length of float including tow vehicle must not exceed 14’ wide, 14’ high from pavement and 75’ in length.
Floats may arrive after 10 a.m. in the staging area for final decorating. Only ONE support vehicle will be allowed in staging area and all others must unload and proceed to provided parking area. Support vehicle must leave staging area by 3:00 p.m.
ALL UNITS MUST BE IN THEIR ASSIGNED SPOT IN LINEUP BY 3 P.M. THIS IS MANDATORY AND THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS. Roads surrounding the lineup area will be closed at 3:00 PM for the safety of participants and the public.
Floats must be in position and completely decorated by 3:15 p.m. for preliminary judging. Final judging will take place along parade route.
No participant may be dressed as Santa Claus and no image of Santa may be on the float.
All material must be properly secured to float unit and proper support/railing and/or restraints must be provided for all riders. There is a speed limit of 5 mph for all units and no maneuvers are allowed.
All floats and large towing vehicles must have fire extinguishers on board and be readily accessible to the vehicle driver.
Each entry will be subject to an inspection by a representative of the City of Ocala Fire Department for the purpose of adherence to local, state, and national fire safety codes. Entries that do not meet the required standard may be subject to removal from the parade.
NO excessive horn blowing or siren use is allowed by vehicle drivers or towing vehicle drivers of unit.
Blatant sound advertising or signage will not be allowed! Sponsor signs can be at front or rear of the unit/float and may be 18” x 36” maximum proportioned to overall size of unit. There are no exceptions!
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