A like ‘totally tubular’ parade
The 1980s brought us Tom Cruise, big hair, PacMan, Michael Jackson, the first traffic signal in Suwanee, Madonna, Valley Girl speak, the Apple Macintosh, and Suwanee Day. This year, the 2008 Suwanee Day parade will celebrate its roots with a “Totally ’80s/silver anniversary” theme. And parade participants who decorate their floats/parade entries in accordance with either a 1980s or silver/25th celebration theme will have an opportunity – for the first time this year – to win a cash prize!
All parade participants are required to apply in advance. The deadline for applications is Wednesday, September 10 or sooner if all parade slots fill up before then. So identify your fave aspect of the gnarly ’80s, get creative, and apply today!
Cash prizes will be awarded in several categories including:
- Best in Show
- Most Creative
- Best Reflection of Theme
- Most Entertaining
Grand Marshal: Michael Phelps
The 1980s also brought the world Michael Phelps – well, just barely. Born in 1989, Phelps, a professional race care driver, is the 2008 Suwanee Day Parade Grand Marshal. Phelps drives the #45 Bowen Family Homes car and currently competes in the ARCA RE/MAX Series as well as the USAR Hooters Pro Cup Series.
Parade route
The Suwanee Day parade kicks off our annual festival at 10 a.m. The 1.25-mile parade route begins at Russell Road and Buford Highway, travels north on Buford Highway and then onto Suwanee Dam and south along Main Street, where it ends at Pierce’s Corner. All participants are required to complete the entire route.
Keepin’ it ‘righteous’
In order to enhance the quality of the Suwanee Day parade, free participation is limited to those who decorate floats or provide some form of entertainment. Schools, non-profit organizations, and festival sponsors also may participate with no charge. However, businesses and other agencies who do not decorate a float or provide entertainment value may participate only if they pay a $200 entry fee.
