Procession of the Species 2025 - Join the Parade Registration Form Logo

  • Join the Parade

  • Use this form to march in the Procession of the Species 2025!
    Whether you’re crafting a butterfly costume, building a forest-themed float, or simply walking with your family, we want YOU to be part of Bellingham’s beloved celebration of nature and creativity.

  • CONTACT INFORMATION

  • Participation Details

  • Participation Agreement

  • Photo Release Agreement

    • Photos and videos will be taken during the event
    • These images may be used for promotional purposes, documentation, and grant reporting
    • By participating in the Procession of the Species, I grant permission for images of myself and my group to be used by Gabriel's Art Kids and City of Bellingham Parks & Recreation

    Safety Agreement

    • I am responsible for my own costume and/or float throughout the event
    • I will follow all safety guidelines for costumes and floats (no glass, no motorized vehicles, size restrictions)
    • I am responsible for the safety and security of my costume/float against weather conditions
    • I will ensure my costume allows for safe movement and visibility
    • I will arrive at the designated time (1:30 PM, or 1:00 PM with float)
    • The event happens rain or shine

    Costume and Float Guidelines

    Welcome to the Procession of Species 2025! This event celebrates creativity, nature, and community. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, please review the following guidelines.

    Costume Guidelines

    • Theme: Costumes should reflect the beauty and diversity of nature. Think animals, plants, insects, or mythical creatures inspired by the natural world.
    • Restrictions:
      • No words
      • No naked body paint (body paint allowed but must be appropriately covered)
      • No glass
      • No live animals
    • Materials:
      • Use eco-friendly, biodegradable, or recycled materials whenever possible
      • Avoid unused plastic or non-recyclable items (e.g., styrofoam)
      • Pro tip: mod podge over your paint to help protect it from the weather
      • No real animal skins or furs
    • Size: Keep costumes manageable—no wider than 6 feet or taller than 10 feet
    • Group Costumes: Coordinate your costumes to represent a shared theme (e.g., a flock of birds, a coral reef, or a forest ecosystem)

    Float Guidelines

    • Power: All floats must be human-powered (pushed or pulled). No motorized vehicles or engines allowed
    • Size and Weight: Maximum dimensions: 10 feet tall, 8 feet wide, and 12 feet long
    • Materials: Use sustainable, lightweight materials like cardboard, bamboo, or fabric
    • Safety: Ensure your float is stable and secure. Avoid sharp edges, loose parts, or anything that could fall
    • Group Participation: Assign roles for pushing/pulling and guiding the float during the procession

    General Guidelines

    • Registration: All participants must register in advance
    • Arrival Time: Arrive at least 1 hour before the procession begins
    • Cleanup: Leave no trace! Dispose of waste properly and recycle materials
    • Responsibility: You are responsible for your own costume and/or float, including:
      • Transportation to and from craft days
      • Safety and security against weather conditions
      • Protection against inclement weather, high winds, or other conditions

    Inspiration for Costumes and Floats

    • Animals: endangered species, local wildlife, mythical creatures
    • Ecosystems: forests, oceans, deserts, wetlands
    • Plants and Trees: flowers, trees, other plant life
    • Weather and Elements: rain, wind, sunlight

    Questions? Contact Casey at casey@gabrielsartkids.com

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