JOIN THE 2026 DEBATE DAYS PARADE! Application form below!
Get ready to wave the flags, crank up the patriotic music, and celebrate America’s 250th Birthday in true Ottawa style!

The 2026 Debate Days Parade returns to Downtown Ottawa on:
📅 Sunday, August 23, 2026
🕐 1:00 PM
📍 Downtown Ottawa, IL – LaSalle Street

This year’s parade celebrates the 250th Anniversary of American Independence, and we’re inviting the entire community to be part of this unforgettable celebration of history, hometown pride, and red, white & blue fun.
We’re looking for:
⭐ Floats
⭐ Marching groups
⭐ Decorated vehicles & golf carts
⭐ Bands & music groups
⭐ Classic cars
⭐ Businesses & nonprofits
⭐ Schools, churches, clubs & teams
⭐ Families, community groups & patriotic personalities

Whether you go historic, hilarious, creative, musical, or full-on star-spangled spectacular — we want YOU in the parade!
🎉 Parade staging begins at 11:30 AM
🎉 All entries must be in place by 12:30 PM
📝 Registration is NOW OPEN!
Entry deadline: Saturday, August 1, 2026
Let’s fill LaSalle Street with flags, music, community spirit, and celebration as Ottawa honors 250 years of America.
We can’t wait to see what this community creates!
https://forms.office.com/r/XuAG96bn6X