inspiration
get ready before the parade
These local groups will be at the event — and have ways to get involved right now
C-U Community Swing Dance
We had so many people at last year's parade who enjoyed watching the swing dancers, but weren't confident enough to get up and dance themselves. Sign up for classes (at any level!) through the Urbana Park District and show up this year with your dancing shoes on!
Bubble City Swing
Champaign-Urbana's swing dance community, teaching Lindy Hop, Charleston and more. They run weekly lessons and a free social dance most Thursday evenings at the Illini Union — and no, you don't have to be a student, and you don't need a partner. Come learn a few moves before December and you'll be ready when the band strikes up at the parade.
C-U Puppet People
For a small membership fee ($10/month), C-U Puppet People allow anyone to come in and use all of the community supplies that are available — this is a safe, inclusive, creative space where anyone is able to come in and create art any time; they'll be happy to help you with anything you want to create!
Handmade wonders from makers around the world
