Homecoming Parade Float Builder's Manual 2009

Building Your Award - Winning Parade Float

Building a float for the CSU Homecoming Parade isn't as hard as you might think. The hardest part is coming up with a unique idea that fits with this year's theme – "Celebrating the Past. Building the Future." Remember to be creative because you might walk or "float" away with a Traveling Trophy. But the best part is the satisfaction of seeing your creation float down the street.

This year's theme, "Celebrating the Past. Building the Future." may be interpreted in two ways – a tribute to CSU Ram Pride, or a tribute to the spirit of the past or present that makes CSU great. The truly creative will find ways to do both!

INTRODUCTION

This manual has been written to aid groups in float building. This is a step-by-step guide to help others take the plunge into float building with as much knowledge as possible. Once you understand the basics, you can let your imagination run wild. And the basics aren't that difficult. With very few exceptions, there are no hard and fast rules for float building. Those that are given are exclusively for safety of all parade participants and attendees along the parade route. Don't forget that the Internet also offers a wealth of information and resources on float building. Search away! patriotic float

GETTING STARTED

CREATING YOUR FLOAT

CONSTRUCTION

VEHICLE SELECTION & GETTING TO AND FROM THE PARADE

ALLOWABLE VEHICLE DIMENSIONS & RULES

BASIC FRAMEWORK

DECORATING YOUR UNIT

SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

TECHNIQUES

METHOD A USING CHICKEN WIRE

METHOD B USING CORRUGATED CARDBOARD

SPECIAL EFFECTS

MORE FINE PRINT

POWER SOURCES

ANIMATION

SOUND

LIGHTS

ODDS & ENDS

IT'S NOT OVER UNTIL WELL UNTIL YOU REACH

FINAL TIPS

HERE ARE SOME MORE WEBSITES FOR MORE FLOAT BUILDING IDEAS!

AND IN CONCLUSION

This is only an introduction to what can be a great experience for you and your club or organization. You'll make new friends, the team will become closer and it's a great experience for all involved. Best of all, you'll know the thrill of seeing your own float make its way up Howes and through the historic heart of campus on the day of the parade. You'll never forget the sound of the applause!

Note: This manual was adapted from the Ashland University Parade website: Builder Manual