Each year, the Lawrence Old-Fashioned Christmas Parade committee selects up to 100 entries for the parade. Selection is based on the quality of the entry as described in the application in combination with the photo submission.
In addition to celebrating the Christmas season, the goal of this parade is to entertain and educate spectators regarding the history of transportation and the contribution of the horse in the evolution of our culture.
The parade begins and ends at the Douglas County Fairgrounds, and the total route is 5.5 miles. Local law enforcement provides escort from the fairgrounds through downtown and in the return. The parade also has designated official outriders to assist as needed and insure the safety of entrants and spectators.
All participants (drivers, passengers and riders) should be dressed in appropriate theme attire
Vehicles should have wooden or metal wheels; those with pneumatic and/or rubber tires are not permitted
Outriders are limited to two per entry. They must remain with their vehicle, and their attire should be coordinated with their entry.
Participants must adhere to their assigned position and must keep pace with the parade, allowing no fewer than 50 yards from the entry in front of them. Avoid stopping during the parade unless necessary for the safety of participants or attendees.
Walkers are not allowed.
Dogs must be leashed and under control while at the fairgrounds and along the parade route. They must be able to ride in the vehicle as they are not permitted to walk.
Nothing may be thrown or distributed from entries along the parade route.
Do not allow parade attendees to pet the horses as this creates a dangerous environment during a parade.
No showboating, circling or performances during the parade.
Entries may not display flags or images used by intolerant groups, including but not limited to the Confederate battle flag.
Riding groups are invitation only. Please email [email protected] to request an invitation.
Reminder: In January 2025, the Kansas Department of Agriculture updated regulations for Coggins test requirements. The regulation requires a negative EIA test (Coggins) within the previous 12 months for horses participating in showing or judging contests or other type of public display. This includes horses that originate outside the state of Kansas or from within Kansas.
All participants with hitches who are traveling more than 50 miles are eligible for one hotel room on the Friday night before the parade at the designated hotel as well as stalls at the Fairgrounds for the horses. Riding groups traveling more than 75 miles are also eligible for one hotel room and stalls. Please indicate your needs on the application.
All participants are invited to dinner and entertainment on Friday night at the Fairgrounds. Reservations may be made on the application.
For additional information, please contact Lawrence Old-Fashioned Christmas Parade via Facebook Messenger, by email or call 785-856-4437
Applications are accepted beginning July 1, 2026. They may be completed online here or mailed to 718 New Hampshire, Lawrence, KS 66044 or by email [email protected]
