Children's Park

FUN FOR THE FAM!

Imagine your child’s face lighting up as they march down the streets of Oswego, a star in their own right, during Harborfest’s annual Children’s Parade.

This isn’t just any parade – it’s a vibrant celebration of creativity and community, where kids become the main attraction. It’s a chance to make lasting memories, connect with other families, and experience the thrill of being part of something truly special – a highlight of Harborfest that your child will cherish for years to come and the start of a day of activities and entertainment for young people at Novelis Breitbeck Park.

For Spectators

what to expect

Whether your child is marching or you're cheering from the sidelines, the Children's Parade is one of the warmest moments of the entire festival weekend. Here's what the experience looks like.

For 2026, this popular parade is Friday, July 24th. The parade will begin at West Park/Franklin Square at 10:30 AM and travel along West Fifth Street to Lake Street and will conclude in Novelis Breitbeck Park. Parade participants should plan on arriving in West Park/Franklin Square no later than 10:00 AM.

Good to Know

The parade is free to watch from anywhere along the route. Grab a spot early — especially if you have little ones who want a front-row view. The sidewalks fill up fast, and kids love being right at the edge to see the marchers up close.

Costumes Everywhere

Kids march in their best costumes — from superheroes to sea creatures to full family themes. No two years look the same. Come ready to be delighted.

Music + Energy

Expect marching music, cheering crowds, and the kind of joyful noise that only a hundred excited kids can make. It's loud, it's fun, and it's impossible not to smile.

Costume Contest

Standout costumes get recognized at the end of the parade. Categories change each year — but creativity always wins. Kids love the recognition and parents love the photos.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere

The parade is one of the most family-friendly moments of the entire festival. Strollers welcome, toddlers encouraged, grandparents guaranteed to have a great time.

Great for Photos

The colorful costumes, the smiling faces, the Oswego waterfront backdrop — it's one of the most photogenic moments of the whole weekend. Bring a charged phone.

Short + Sweet

The parade typically runs 30–45 minutes — the perfect length for kids with shorter attention spans. Fun from start to finish without anyone getting restless.

For Participants

how kids can march

Any child is welcome to march in the Children's Parade — no experience required, no auditions, no complicated sign-up process. Just show up, dress up, and join the fun. Here's how it works.

Register Your Child

Sign up through the Harborfest website or at the registration tent on the day of the parade. Registration is free and open to all children. Details and deadlines will be announced closer to the festival.

Pick a Costume — Any Costume

There's no theme requirement. Kids can wear whatever they like — a classic Halloween costume, a homemade creation, a favorite character, or a full family ensemble. The more creative, the better.

Arrive at the Staging Area

Participants gather at the designated starting point before the parade begins. Volunteers will be on hand to help families get organized, answer questions, and make sure every kid knows where to go.

March, Wave, and Enjoy

When the parade begins, kids walk the route through downtown Oswego while the crowd cheers them on. Parents and guardians are welcome to walk alongside younger children. It's a moment your kids will talk about all year.

bring the whole family

July 23-26 · Oswego, NY · Free Admission · Fun for All Ages

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Oswego Harbor Festivals, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit producing Oswego’s annual waterfront festival since 1988. McCrobie Building, 41 Lake Street, Oswego, NY 13126.