MoCo Thanksgiving Parade 2024 Seeks Performers; Sign Up Now

SILVER SPRING, MD — If you want to start your holiday season by taking part in the only Thanksgiving parade in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, it's time to sign up.

Organizers are seeking colorful performing units and creative groups to march in the annual Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade, which will begin at 10 a.m. at Veterans Plaza and conclude at noon on Saturday, Nov. 16, in Silver Spring.

Application submissions to join the parade are due at 11:59 on Tuesday, Oct. 1. Participation is free. The application and additional information about the parade are available here.

The parade will take place rain or shine.

“The Thanksgiving Parade in Silver Spring is a long-standing Montgomery County tradition that brings together residents from across our community to celebrate the holiday season and our diversity,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich in a news release. “Whether you are a performer, an artist or part of a creative group, this is your opportunity to showcase your talents to thousands of spectators. I encourage everyone to consider participating and help make this year’s parade the most memorable yet.”

The parade kicks off the holiday season in the Silver Spring Arts and Entertainment District, with thousands of spectators along the route each year.

The procession begins at Ellsworth Drive and Fenton Street, moves south on Georgia Avenue, and concludes at the intersection of Silver Spring Avenue and Georgia Avenue.

Parade highlights include giant inflatable turkeys and penguins, sparkling floats, marching bands, dance troupes and Santa and his elves.

Thanksgiving or holiday-themed units are encouraged to apply, as well as marching bands, multicultural groups, majorettes and baton twirlers, artists, clowns, dance and gymnastic troupes, floats, sports teams, costumed characters, beauty queens, classic car clubs and other creative displays.