Parade Line-up
The Grand Miners Parade is one of the signature traditions of Spirit of Bohemia Mining Days. It is where music, movement, hometown pride, and small-town pageantry all come together in downtown Cottage Grove. From floats and classic cars to clubs, performers, and community groups, this is your chance to be part of the celebration.
The Grand Miners Parade is more than a lineup of entries. It is one of the moments when the whole festival spills into the streets. Families line the route, music fills the air, and every entry helps tell the story of community, tradition, and creativity.
Whether you are bringing a float, a decorated vehicle, a youth group, a performance team, or a simple hometown entry with a lot of heart, there is room for you in the parade.
Parade applications are open now, and this year we are using a fillable PDF application. Visit the join page to download the application, review the Code of Conduct, and get all submission instructions.
This year’s theme celebrates the 100th anniversary of Buster Keaton’s The General and highlights three things that help tell the story of Cottage Grove: our beautiful rivers, the railroad, and the film industry that has left its mark here.
Use your imagination with a theme that feels like a beautifully crafted silent film brought to life. Think vintage motion, steam engines, river imagery, expressive costumes, cinematic storytelling, old-time spectacle, and creative parade entries that capture the charm and drama of early film.
Bring energy and a clear idea
Strong entries usually have a clear look, a fun visual theme, and something memorable for the announcer to say as they pass by.
Keep it family-friendly and safe
The best parade entries are welcoming, polished, and easy for spectators of all ages to enjoy from the sidewalk.
Perfect for many kinds of groups
Businesses, churches, clubs, youth teams, civic groups, families, and individual community members are all welcome to participate.
Let your creativity show
This year’s theme opens the door for silent film-inspired ideas, railroad heritage, river imagery, vintage style, and old-fashioned parade fun.
The Grand Miners Parade rolls through the heart of Cottage Grove and remains one of the best ways to experience Spirit of Bohemia Mining Days from the street.
The 2026 parade route is not finalized yet. Final lineup details, route information, and participant instructions will be shared closer to parade day.
Planning to participate?
Fillable PDF applications are open now. Visit the join page for the application, Code of Conduct, and submission instructions.
Parade day moves fast, so it helps participants know the rhythm ahead of time.
Parade Highlights
A cleaner look at some of the moments that make the Grand Miners Parade one of the most memorable parts of the festival.
