Fun for the Entire Family
The Frostfest Parade stands as a cherished tradition, weaving the fabric of joy and wonderment for families and residents in Hays and the surrounding communities. For years, this enchanting spectacle has illuminated the streets, igniting the holiday spirit and creating cherished memories for all who attend. Its allure extends beyond Hays, drawing in visitors from neighboring towns, all converging upon Main Street to revel in the magic of the season. Each year dozens of floats make their way down main street to unite the community in a shared holiday experience. Weaving together the tapestry of tradition and holiday cheer, the Frostfest Illuminated Parade is an annual highlight you won’t want to miss.
First time in Hays Kansas?
This Holiday highlight often brings in visitors from neighboring towns to share in the holiday cheer. Guests often visit from neighboring communities including Munjor, Antonino, Yocemento, Catharine, Wakeeney, Great Bend, and more. With so much excitement and holiday cheer it’s easy to see why so many Hays natives attend annually. It is no wonder that those who attend leave with smiles on their faces and joy in their hearts.
If you are making your way to Hays this December we recommend staying at a local inn like the Bissing House located within walking distance of Main Street. Your stay will be nearby the downtown region of Hays, allowing you to explore the city to the fullest and joy all of what Hays has to offer. If a local inn is not your style there are plenty of other options in the northern part of Hays. While there are many different places to stay throughout Hays, none is so close to all the activities of the parade. The other lodgings may have more amenities or better pricing, the Bissing House is your best option if you want to be located at the heart of Hays where all the parade action will be.
The Parade Route
The Frostfest Parade route winds its way down the heart of Hays, traversing along the historic Main Street, a vibrant thoroughfare adorned with a tapestry of local businesses, iconic landmarks, and cherished establishments. From the parade’s starting point, the procession illuminates Main Street, passing by notable locations that define the town’s essence. As the procession weaves its way through, spectators gather around key landmarks, including the Union Pacific Plaza, Breathe Coffee House, and Hays Public Library, each adorned with festive decor and lights that add to the enchanting ambiance of the parade. The parade’s route is a journey through the heart of Hays, highlighting the town’s charm and community spirit.
Partnering with the Community
Located adjacent to the Fox Theatre along the parade route is Robert Brogden Hays GMC, a proud business partner of the annual Hays Frostfest Illuminated Parade. This year Robert Brogden Hays GMC will not only be a supporter of this parade, but also a participant in the longstanding holiday tradition. Our dealership will be in on the action, adorning one of our very own GMC trucks to be part of the fun. As the parade proceeds throughout Downtown Hays make sure to look out for our float as we hope to share in the Holiday Spirit.
While our dealership is best known for selling quality trucks and vehicles, we also have a strong passion for our community. Hays is our home and we want to be invested in the community and the lives of those around us. As part of the Frostfest Parade this year we wanted to be more involved with our community and show that we care about our fellow Hays residents. Whether its your first time at the Frostfest Parade this year, or if you have attended every year we are looking forward to seeing you there.
2023 Frostfest Illuminated Parade Theme: “Heartfelt Holiday”
As competitors work to build their floats and prepare them for the competition they will need to keep in mind this year’s theme. Judges will be taking into consideration how well each float relates to the theme and encapsulates this year’s theme. As you build your float or vote for your favorite make sure to keep this in mind.
Recognitions and Awards
Each year a highlight of the Frostfest Illuminated Parade is the competition. Awards are given for various categories to the floats which best embody the spirit of Hays and are outstanding in their respective categories. This year honors and awards will be given for the following categories:
NEX-TECH WIRELESS PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD: (Text-to-Vote)
All entries are eligible. (Winner receives $150 in CASH)
JUDGE’S CHOICE AWARD:
All entries are eligible. (Winner receives $150 in CASH)
ANIMAL CATEGORY:
All entries with animals are eligible. (Winner receives $100 in CASH)
BUSINESS CATEGORY:
All business organizations are eligible. (Winner receives $100 in CASH)
NON-PROFIT CATEGORY:
All non-profit organizations and schools are eligible. (Winner receives $100 in CASH)
FAMILY & FRIENDS CATEGORY:
All family & friend groups (not qualified under any other category) are eligible. (Winner receives $100 in CASH)
Eligibility & Requirements
All contestants will be judged on costumes, relationship to the theme, creativity, visual effect (design, craftsmanship, etc.), and animation. If only one entrant is received in a category, judges will determine its eligibility. All Floats will be judged at 1200 Main St, in front of the Chestnut Street Building. Winners must complete the entirety of the parade route to be eligible to receive recognition. All decisions made by judges for this competition are final.
In order to be eligible for this year’s parade competition all participants must register online via the 2023 Frostfest Parade Registration Form. This allows judges to know what to look for and keep the event more organized for all who attend.
This year the parade will commence on Sunday, December 10th 2023 at 6:00PM on Main Street.
Connecting with our Community
As we celebrate the holidays this year keep in mind Robert Brogden Hays GMC is your trusted GMC dealer located in Hays, Kansas. We want to stay in touch with our community and continue to connect with our neighbors. If you see our float during this year’s parade make sure to say hello. If you miss our float this year don’t worry! You can stop by Robert Brogden Hays GMC anytime and check out the vehicle behind the float that made our entrance into this year’s Frostfest Parade possible.
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