This Year’s Theme: Holidays

Build a Float. Bring the Chaos. Celebrate Every Holiday.

The 3rd Annual Krewe of Shoe-Be-Boozie Shoebox Parade is rolling through Downtown Gulfport — and this year, we’re celebrating every holiday on the calendar.

Pick one holiday or mash up a few for maximum fun.
Yes — “Hallow-Thanks-Mas” is absolutely encouraged.

2026 Theme

This Year’s Theme: “HOLIDAYS!”

The 3rd Annual Krewe of Shoe-Be-Boozie Shoebox Parade is rolling through Downtown Gulfport — and this year we’re celebrating every holiday on the calendar.

Pick one holiday or mash up a few for maximum chaos (yes, “Hallow-Thanks-Mas” is absolutely encouraged).

About the Theme

“HOLIDAYS!” is your excuse to go all-in: glitter, tinsel, pumpkins, fireworks, Cupid arrows — if it screams “holiday,” it belongs on your shoebox float. The funnier the mashup, the better.

Pick Your Holiday

  • One holiday theme (classic + clean)
  • Holiday mashup (maximum Boozie energy)
  • Local twist (Gulf Coast inside jokes encouraged)

Go Big (But Tiny)

  • Build on a shoebox base
  • Use lightweight materials
  • Add movement, lights, or funny props

Bring the Laughs

  • Puns win hearts
  • Chaos wins crowds
  • Creativity wins trophies

Awards & Fun

Expect trophies, bragging rights, and plenty of laughs.

Carnival Crown

  • Best Overall Float
  • Crowd favorite that nails theme + fun

Shoe-nanigansn

  • Best representation of “HOLIDAYS!”
  • Big theme energy, tiny float

Chandeleur Cheers Cup

  • Judges’ Choice
  • Crowd-pleasing throw

Get Inspired

Need ideas? Here are a few easy starters.

Patriotic Valentine’s Day: hearts + fireworks + chaos.
Zombie Easter Bunny: creepy pastels, extra points for horror glitter.
Santa Meets Uncle Sam: red, white, blue, and jingle bells.
Pumpkin Piñata Float: candy, confetti, and mayhem.

U.S. Holidays to Choose From

Pick one. Pick three. Smash them together. You can’t mess this up.

Washington’s Birthday (Presidents’ Day) Valentine’s Day Mardi Gras St. Patrick’s Day Easter Mother’s Day Memorial Day Father’s Day Flag Day Juneteenth Labor Day Columbus Day Veterans Day Halloween Thanksgiving Day Christmas Day

Float Building Rules (Keep It Fair, Safe, and Parade-Ready)

These rules keep every float easy to carry, safe for the crowd, and fair for judging. Build big energy — in a tiny box.

1) Base + Size Rules

  • One shoebox base only. No taping multiple shoeboxes together.
  • Stay within the size limits listed on this page (L18xW14xH18).
  • Up is OK • Out is not. Decorations can go taller, but nothing should stick out past the footprint of the base.
  • Carry-friendly: Your float should be comfortable for one person to hold and walk with.

2) Build Quality + Durability

  • Secure everything. No loose parts that can fall off during the parade.
  • Reinforce tall pieces. Use internal supports (cardboard braces, dowels, sticks) so it doesn’t wobble.
  • Stability test: Place it on a table and gently bump it. If it tips easily, lower weight up top or add support.
  • Weather-ready: If there’s wind or light rain, use tape/glue that won’t fail (packing tape + hot glue works well).

3) Safety Rules (Non-Negotiable)

  • No glass or anything that can shatter.
  • No sharp edges (exposed wires, pins, blades, metal spikes).
  • No flames, fireworks, or heat sources.
  • No liquids, messy gels, or open containers that can spill.
  • No heavy projectiles or hard throws attached to the float.

4) Fairness + Theme Rules

  • Theme counts. Stick to the year’s theme (or do a creative mash-up) and make it obvious.
  • Handmade wins. Store-bought pieces are allowed, but judges reward creativity and effort.
  • Family-friendly only. No hateful, violent, or adult-only themes, graphics, or messages.
  • Quick Tip:
    If you’re adding a tall centerpiece, anchor it by running a stick through the shoebox and taping/gluing it on the inside. It’s the easiest way to keep things upright.

Meet Us at Chandeleur Brewing

2711 14th St, Gulfport, MS 39501

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