The Dexter Summer Festival Parade is Back!
We're excited to announce that the parade is returning to the 2025 Dexter Summer Festival. Join us on Saturday, August 9th, at 10 AM for a fun-filled parade down Main Street. The route will turn onto Broad Street, right by our brand-new Action Zone. Stay tuned for more updates—we can't wait to see you there!
Sponsored By:
Kid Bike Decorating Station
Calling all creative kids! 🎨🚲
Join us at the Dexter Summer Festival and be part of the fun with our Kid Bike Decorating Station!
📍 Location: Action Zone (Broad Street Parking Lot)
🕙 Time: Friday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Kids are invited to stop by and decorate their bikes with colorful supplies provided at the station. Then, ride your decorated bike in Saturday’s parade — kids will lead the way in a special section at the front of the parade! Please note kids 7 and under will need a parent to walk with them in the Parade.
No registration needed — just bring your bike and get ready to roll in style!
Want to have your group in the parade please read below and fill out the form. A Chamber representative will be in touch soon!
https://www.cognitoforms.com/DexterAreaChamber.../ParadeForm
Traditionally, parades have been a “show up and be seen” kind of event. But in 2025, we’re embracing fun, whimsy, and even a little satire, inspired by iconic Doo Dah Parades in places like Pasadena, Columbus, and Kalamazoo. Get ready for a parade that’s full of energy, humor, and unexpected surprises!
Parade Highlights
Grand Marshals: Madison Rally & Brian Welch from W4 Country
T-Shirt hand out The winner of our T-Shirt Design Contest will walk near the front, handing FREE shirts to the crowd!
Kids on Bikes: Decorated bikes, trikes, and scooters are welcome! A free Bike Decorating Station will be available on Friday in Broad Street Plaza (Action Zone sponsored by SBK Orthodontics).
After the kids roll through, the creativity takes off— All other groups/business will be here.
Let’s Get Creative!
We’re encouraging all participants to bring their A-game—and think outside the box:
Dance Studios? Dance! Don’t just walk.
Landscapers? Try a lawn mower drill team!
Got a business? Go beyond logos—make it memorable.
Thinking about proposing? We love surprises (and we can keep a secret 😉)!
Need help brainstorming? We’re here for it.
Parade Rules (Yes, Just a Few)
To keep things fun (and safe), please follow these simple guidelines:
❌ No water balloons, super soakers, or anything messy.
❌ No candy, food, or junk tossing—we love our streets clean.
🐾 Pets? Bring a pooper-scooper.
🚫 No political, religious, or social messaging. No pro/anti signs, statements, or endorsements. If you’re unsure—ask! (Example: Politicians in a clown car = fun. Political banners = not fun.)
✅ Registration is free, but required.
💛 Be kind, be fun, and play nice with others.
Parade Details
Date: Saturday, August 9
Start Time: 10:00 AM
Lineup: Begins at 9:00 AM on Kensington, southwest of Main Street
Route: Down Main Street to Alpine
Check-In: Be ready by 9:45 AM. Volunteers will assist with lineup. Order is generally first-come, first-served.
Stay Tuned
We’ll be sharing more updates as the big day approaches. Thank you for being part of what we hope will become a Dexter tradition! Let’s make it unforgettable.