Parade to roll Saturday afternoon

By Sandy Morris

The 2021 version of the Fandangle parade is set to take to the streets of downtown Albany at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 19, and parade organizers are hoping for more entries to come in during the next two days. 

Fandangle parade organizers Ragan Riley and Shannon Leech are encouraging local businesses, organizations, and individuals to submit their 2021 entries. 

Winning entries will receive cash prizes to be awarded in several categories.

Entries

Entry forms are available at the Fandangle office. There is no cost to sign up for the parade, and forms can be returned to the office or emailed to Riley at rriley@resource care.org.

Entry forms will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, June 18, said Riley.

Awards will be given to first through third place winners in several categories.

Cash prizes will be given for Best Fandangle Themed Float, Best Horse Troupe (at least three riders), Best Classic Car, and Best ‘Western’ Ride (Buggies, Prairie Schooners, Stagecoaches, etc.)

Other awards include Most Authentic, Best Horseman, Most Creative, Judges Choice, Loudest Entry (car horns and sirens excluded), Best Horse, Classic Car that we would love to own, and Best Single Person entry.

Winners will be announced at the Prairie Theater shortly before the start of the Fandangle performance on June 19, the day of the parade.

Parade participants are asked to arrive on Griffin Street located by Nancy Smith Elementary School before 4:30 p.m. on June 19. 

Entries will need to check in with a parade co-chairman who will then assign a parade number and give instructions on where to line up.

The parade will start promptly at 5:00 p.m. starting on Albany’s Main Street led by Louann George playing the calliope. The route will then circle around the historic Shackelford County Courthouse and head back to the staging area.

Parade Sponsorship

Riley and Leech are still encouraging local and area businesses and organizations to become one of this year’s parade sponsors. 

There are several packages to choose from, and the sponsorship money helps provide the cash awards and other prizes for the parade.

“We are so thankful for the sponsors who have signed up including Prairie Star, First Financial Bank, Clear Fork Coffee, Buds for You, ResourceCare, and The Albany News, but more sponsors are welcome to get involved,” Riley said. “All sponsors will receive recognition at the parade and on our parade banner located at the judges platform.” 

All sponsor forms are needed by (today) Thursday, June 17 by 5:00 p.m. at the Fandangle office or returned to the parade organizers. 

For more information about entering the parade or becoming a sponsor, contact Riley via email at rriley@resourcecare.org or call the Fandangle office at  325-762-3838.