Topeka
Topeka

Miracle on Kansas Ave MKA 2023

Ring in the holidays with the
Miracle on Kansas Avenue Parade!

Join us for the 28th Annual Miracle on Kansas Ave Parade! Watch the floats and entries as they take to downtown covered in holiday lights, garland, and tinsel. We are back to our traditional route, on Kansas Avenue! Everyone is invited to line the streets along the parade route with their friends and family to view the floats as they cruise by.

The Miracle on Kansas Avenue Parade features “lighted” holiday-themed entries and the official arrival of Santa! After the parade, enjoy dinner downtown and stroll the avenue to see all the decorated storefronts and vote for your favorite window in the Window Decorating Contest. Instructions on how to vote will be in the contestants windows.

 

FLOAT ENTRY

The Miracle on Kansas Avenue Parade features “lighted” holiday-themed entries and the official arrival of Santa! We encourage you to advocate for your businesses to get involved in this wonderful community event by building a float or submitting a parade entry to participate!

Interested in sponsorship opportunities for the Miracle on Kansas Avenue Parade? Email ashlee.spring@topekapartnership.com!

Interested in providing an experience along the parade route such as caroling, photo opportunities, holiday characters, musicians and more Email john.koop@topekapartnership.com!

Interested in being on the parade route to sell roasted nuts, hot chocolate, eggnog, sugar cookies, and other holiday themed treats? Email john.koop@topekapartnership.com!

 

Want to enter a float in the parade?

We've actually made it easier this year. Here are your steps and some additional guidelines:

Walking groups, dance teams, marching bands, bicycles, floats, car clubs and more are welcome to participate.

  1. Register HERE and fill out the necessary float description form.
  2. On December 2nd arrive at 1st and Kansas, beginning at 3PM to find a spot along the route. Please do not arrive earlier.
  3. Pay the encouraged donation at the entry of $10 or more.
  4. We highly encourage you to preregister here, but we will have float description cards on site to fill out at this point if not already done. You will then get your float #.
  5. Wait for the parade to begin!

 

Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • No Santa or Mrs. Claus on floats - we wouldn't want to confuse the little kiddos with imposters, would we?
  • Candy and any other items cannot be thrown from floats but can be handed out by those walking along the parade route perimeter. Please drop directly in front of viewers so no one comes out into the road.
  • Entries should be decorated all the way around so no photographers accidently get your bad side.
  • Every entry must include lights!
  • Open flames are not allowed on entries unless contained and approved.
  • Be mindful of your height clearance, you must be able to safely drive under the downtown arches.
  • Pets must be leashed and kept to a one-to-one ratio. All pets must be cleaned up after.
  • Horses may be entered but must wear catch bags throughout entirety of event.
  • Political campaigns or statements are not allowed.
  • Confetti guns and confetti devices are not allowed.

Simple as that! We would love for you to register, or simply come on out and enjoy the day!

 

Nominations for the 2023 Grand Marshal and Junior Grand Marshall are underway. To nominate someone, fill out the form HERE.

 

  MEET THE 2022 GRAND MARSHAL

  Dr. Jerry Farley

2022 MKA Grand Marshal - Farley

Dr. Farley was nominated for grand marshal following his retirement this year from Washburn University, where he served as president for 25 years. During his tenure as the longest-serving president in Washburn’s 157 years, Farley advocated for a vibrant student life, a strong residential feel on campus, solid financial footing, and a healthy endowment, among other initiatives. Farley retired in September, enjoying a send-off by the Washburn University Marching Blues band as he took his final stroll through campus.

“Everyone loves a parade, particularly the Miracle on Kansas Avenue,” Farley said. “We want everyone to join us — children, families, those participating in the parade, marching bands and perhaps a jovial person dressed in red. Festive decorations, businesses open for shopping and an enormous crowd create excitement. Susan and I are delighted to add to the noise and wonderful atmosphere.”

MEET THE 2022 JUNIOR GRAND MARSHAL

Lorenzo Perez 

2022 MKA Junior Grand Marshal - Lorenzo Perez

Lorenzo is an 8th grader at Jardine Middle School.  Go Jaguars!  At school he is active in band, improv, fitness club, and basketball.  He has also achieved Star rank in Scouts and attends El Shaddai Ministries Community Church.  He loves spending time with friends, family and his two dogs, Time and Cairo.  Lorenzo has been attending the Miracle on Kansas Avenue Parade since he was born.  This year he is very happy to actually be involved, and grateful for all the people and businesses that make it happen each year. 

Parade Route:

Miracle on Kansas Ave Parade 2023

Parade Route:

➡️ Entry is at 1st & Kansas Ave
➡️ South on Kansas Ave using NB lanes
➡️ Parade starts at 5th & Kansas Ave
➡️ Turn west on 10th using WB lanes
➡️ North on Jackson using NB lane
➡️ Continue North on Jackson
➡️ Disband and Exit at 4th and Jackson