The City of Eustis is seeking applicants for the annual Georgefest Grand Parade.
One of the most highly anticipated and well-attended events of the 2024 Georgefest celebration in Eustis each year is the Grand Parade, which will be held on Saturday, Feb. 24, the last day of the week-long event, at 10 a.m.
The theme of the 122nd Georgefest is “Family, Fun, Freedom!” The oldest continuously held celebration of former President George Washington in the world, the festival begins on Saturday, Feb. 17, and continues each night throughout the week. Concerts, the Miss Eustis pageant, a talent showcase and even a carnival will be held in locations around downtown Eustis and Ferran Park.
The annual parade, sponsored by the Lake Eustis Area Chamber of Commerce, typically has more than 75 entries, including floats, marching bands, walking performance groups and more with thousands of onlookers lining the street. The parade route extends north from Norton Avenue along South-bound Bay Street in downtown Eustis to the Community Center on Northshore Drive. The streets will be closed for several hours to traffic, and vehicles will be detoured around the route.
All entrants should adhere to the theme, and each will be judged with awards announced that afternoon. In addition, those who participate are encouraged to toss candy to the children in the crowd. Every entry must fill out an application with a fee of $30 included, submitted by the deadline on Feb. 7. For applications or questions about the parade, call the Lake Eustis Area Chamber of Commerce at 352-357-3434.
For more information about the City of Eustis 122nd Georgefest celebration, visit www.eustisgeorgefest.org.