Days of '47 parade (how much, camping, residential)

[teraval]

Hi all!

I just wanted to see if I can get some tips regarding the Days of '47 parade that will be taking place downtown this Tuesday. It will be my first time but from pictures I've seen, it looks like it has the potential to get insanely crowded. If I'm not camping the night before, when is the best time to scout for spots and set up chairs along the route? Any suggestions for good locations to set up? How is parking? We are thinking of taking trax (if it's running). Any tips or help would be appreciated!

Thank you

[Katzpur]

Originally Posted by teraval

Hi all!

I just wanted to see if I can get some tips regarding the Days of '47 parade that will be taking place downtown this Tuesday. It will be my first time but from pictures I've seen, it looks like it has the potential to get insanely crowded. If I'm not camping the night before, when is the best time to scout for spots and set up chairs along the route? Any suggestions for good locations to set up? How is parking? We are thinking of taking trax (if it's running). Any tips or help would be appreciated!

Thank you

I haven't actually been to the parade in quite a number of years (not since it went down Main Street). But based on my experiences back then, I'd say that the east side of 200 East will be the most crowded part of the parade route due to the fact that it will be shadier than the west side of street. Since there are fewer really tall buildings, though, that factor may not be as significant as it once was. For some reason, people seem to like to see a parade near the beginning of the parade route instead of near the end. That's really kind of ridiculous in my opinion. If you agree, then try to find seats alone 900 South instead of on 200 East. It will still be crowded, but probably less so as the parade approaches Liberty Park, where all the floats end up at the conclusion of the parade. Like you, I have always found the idea of camping out on the parade route to be insane, but you will need to go early to find any kind of place to see what's going on. If you have foldable lawn chairs, I would strongly suggest them. Much of the parade route (especially now that it's no longer on Main Street) is in a semi-residential area. How willing the residents are to let strangers put up their chairs on their front lawns will make a big difference in how much seating there is.

Keep in mind that the parade is 3 hours long and it's going to be hot. It's a fun parade, though. I think you'll enjoy it.

[InSandy]

The nice thing about heading to Liberty Park area is that the parade gets there about an hour later so it is not as essential to be there by 8am. And yes it does get crowded there, lots of shade and an easy walk for people in the vicinity.

But plan about an hour early either at the beginning or at the end. Places with shade go first so bring some of your own. Also chairs, blanket, water, food, and money.

TRAX will be running and would be a good way to avoid looking for parking. It will run on a Sunday schedule with no east west travel in the Parade zone during the parade time. Get off at the Courthouse and walk up.