celebrate
the
Waterland Parade
JULY 18
2026
Experience one of Des Moines’ most cherished traditions! Proudly sanctioned by Seafair, the 2026 Waterland Parade will feature marching bands, dazzling dancers, creative local businesses, and proud community groups filling the streets with excitement. Watch for the legendary Seafair Pirates and plenty of playful Seafair clowns bringing laughter and fun for all ages.
Come celebrate community, tradition, and summer in
Des Moines, we can’t wait to see you there!
Date & Time
Date
Saturday, July 18, 2026
Schedule
Entrant Check-in at 4:00 PM
Parade Launch at 6:00 PM
Location & Route
Marine View Drive, Des Moines, WA. Southbound from S 216th St. to S 226th St.
Get Involved
Volunteers
Together we can build back the magic of the Waterland Festival! Bring your ideas and enthusiasm and join our dedicated team of volunteers to help coordinate logistics, manage staging, and ensure a safe, joyful celebration for all of Des Moines. As an event that is 100% organized and produced by volunteers, we rely on passionate community members to bring this beloved tradition to life. Your time and energy make a direct impact in creating an unforgettable experience for families, businesses, and neighbors alike.
Vendors
Showcase your local crafts or delicious food to a lively crowd of community members and visitors. We have a variety of vendor spots available along the route, offering prime opportunities for visibility and meaningful engagement.
community partners & sponsors
Become a sponsor and play a meaningful role in preserving a cherished community tradition. Your partnership directly supports this hometown celebration while strengthening local connections and showcasing your organization’s commitment to the community. We offer multiple sponsorship levels and opportunities, and we’re happy to work with you to create a partnership package that’s the perfect fit for your goals and budget.
The Official Parade Route
The Waterland Parade has a new route in 2026! Kicking off at 6:00 PM on July 18, 2026, the parade marches southbound on Marine View Drive in Des Moines. Whether you're a first-timer or a long-time resident, explore our route map to find the best viewing spots and plan your arrival.
Join the Parade
Ready to make a splash in the Waterland Parade? Register your group, float, or marching band below to secure your place in the highlight event of the year in Des Moines.
The Heartbeat of
Des Moines: Six Decades of Tradition
Since 1960, the Waterland Festival and Parade has been a proud and cherished tradition in Des Moines, bringing generations of neighbors together to celebrate summer, community, and hometown pride.
What began as a small seaside gathering has grown into one of our city’s most beloved annual events, honoring our rich waterfront heritage while creating new memories each year. The Waterland Festival and Parade continues to unite families, local businesses, and community groups in a vibrant celebration of everything that makes our community special.
Ready to Join the Parade?
The community of Des Moines welcomes you! Whether you’d like to perform in the parade, showcase your organization, or volunteer behind the scenes, we welcome you to join the fun. Registration is now open for all entries and volunteers.