How to Register for the Bud Billiken Parade: Complete Guide

The Bud Billiken Parade (Chicago, annual August) is the largest African-American parade in the U.S. Registration is online and competitive—apply early.

Step-by-Step Registration

1. Visit the official site: budbillikenparade.org
2. Click "Registration" in the top navigation
3. Review rules & requirements thoroughly—float specs, music guidelines, insurance mandates, participant conduct
4. Select participation type:
   • Float (commercial, non-profit, governmental)
   • Marching band / drum line
   • Dance / drill team
   • Walking group (community org, school, church, corporate)
   • Vehicle (classic car, motorcycle club, etc.)
   • Equestrian unit
5. Complete the online form: Organization details, contact person, participant count, vehicle/float dimensions, music/sound plans
6. Pay the fee: Varies by category (e.g., commercial floats > non-profit; bands often discounted)
7. Submit insurance: Certificate of liability insurance (typically $1M general liability) naming parade organizers as additional insured—required before confirmation
8. Receive confirmation email with lineup number, staging instructions, deadline reminders

Critical Deadlines & Tips

• Early bird deadline: Usually May–June (lower fee, guaranteed spot)
• Final deadline: Typically 3–4 weeks before parade (late fees apply)
• Limited categories: Floats and prime positions fill fast
• Mandatory meeting: All participants attend a pre-parade logistics/safety meeting

Contact for Updates

Rules, fees, and dates change annually. Always verify at budbillikenparade.org or email info@budbillikenparade.org.

Celebrating 95+ years of culture, education, and community—the Bud Billiken Parade is a Chicago institution worth the paperwork.