Get ready for the 2023 Paul Bunyan GRAND PARADE

Who doesn't like a parade? Be prepared to be wowed by the marching bands, beautiful floats and many classic trucks and cars that will appeal to automobile enthusiasts. Don’t forget to wave at Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox as they pass!

The 2023 Forest Festival Court will be on display in all their regalia. The beautiful float that they appear on is the result of many hours of hard work done by the royalty and their families The court also visits numerous other festivals throughout the year on their float. Honoring past Forest Festival royalty is a long-time tradition, look for them to appear in this year's parade. Also keep an eye out for visiting royalty from other festivals and their creative presentations.

Commercial entries in the parade are a great way for organizations to show community support. Local industries like shellfish, forestry, insurance, emergency services, utilities, and more make up a large portion of the business pageantry of parade day. Non-profit groups and organizations are always highlights of the parade.

From honoring our veterans to guiding our youths the organizations promote our community every day. Look for entries from the Boy and Girl Scouts, Shriners, American Legion, 4-H, and various equestrian group — just to name a few.

Parade participants compete for various awards in several categories. The unique award plaques have been designed and produced by local high school students (see article page 10). Some of the categories include Grand Sweepstakes, Grand Marshall, Motorized Vehicles, Spirit, Creativity, Novelty, Equestrian, Bands, and Dance/Drill.

The Forest Festival Parade committee encourages organizations to get creative and be part of the annual Forest Festival Paul Bunyan Grand Parade. Come out and enjoy the parade as a spectator – it wouldn’t be a parade without the community!