The Pioneer Days parade is one of the biggest events in Steinbach every year.  The streets are filled to overflowing with individuals from all over the southeast ready to participate in the beginning of Pioneer Days.  We chatted with some parade viewing professionals who have been attending the parade for decades to learn the secrets to make the most of the Pioneer Days parade and how to make it enjoyable for everyone.

1.  The early bird gets the worm.

You will need to arrive early.The parade starts at 10 a.m. and to guarantee a good spot, you need to arrive no later than 9 a.m.  And if you have to leave your location for a coffee or bathroom run.....make sure you have someone to guard your chairs so you don’t lose your spot!

 

 

2.  Location location location

You want a spot that isn’t too sunny, so you can keep cool and enjoy the festivities.

Sources recommend a spot between Friesen and Reimer.  Many state that the first half of the parade route is desirable as this allows you to leave the downtown area earlier.  Past parade attenders have mentioned that the goodies are more abundant at the start of the parade as some floats run out near the end.

3.  Park it here.

Parking is available on the side streets along the parade route.  Be a good citizen and keep the businesses parking lots open for their customers.  Better yet? Head to the parade on your bike and avoid all the parking headaches! Lock your bike at a bike rack and enjoy the parade!

 

 

4.  Like the Boy Scouts say…’Be Prepared’

Dress for the weather and don’t forget to pack for the parade.  Sunscreen, a hat, a lawn chair (key for a relaxed viewing experience), a tin of food (learn more at #6), water...you could bring snacks, but…..see The Sweet Stuff below and you may not need to pack food!  And most importantly? Make sure bathroom breaks are taken before arriving at your parade viewing location.

 

 

5.  The Sweet Stuff

Pioneer Days parades are known for the candy and fun stuff that is handed out.  Make sure you attend with some sort of container for all your parade goodies. Buckets, grocery bags, pillow cases, garbage bags, wagons….the size depends on how much stuff you’re going to grab!

Past parade atttenders weighed in and said their favorite treats were jolly ranchers, tootsie rolls, Squeekers cheese and double bubble.  A lot also mentioned hot dogs...yes...hot dogs are handed out as treats! And in addition to candy, there are the fun toys that are handed out as well, squeeze balls, frisbees, sunglasses…..lots of fun things to grab!

 

6.  Give back while you get

Bring a tin for the bin!  Watch for the Steinbach Pistons pushing shopping carts during the parade and helping re-stock the shelves at SouthEast Helping Hands.  Make sure you pack a tin and give back while you’re getting the parade goodies! Don’t want to pack a tin? Volunteers from SouthEast Helping Hands will also be in the parade with buckets for your cash donations. 

 

Mind Your Manners. Some parade attending etiquette.

  • If you want to stand to watch the parade, make sure you find a spot behind those sitting in lawn chairs.  That way everyone can see what’s going by.
  • Share your treats….make sure the kids around you are getting their chance for the goodies too.
  • Stay behind the yellow line.  The City of Steinbach sets out a “guard rail” for parade viewers to sit behind. Be a good viewer and abide by their yellow line!

See you on Main Street at 10 a.m. on Friday!  The parade will lead off at the Steinbach Fire Hall at the East end of Main Street and will proceed West down Main Street, and North down Brandt Street (Hwy 12N), ending at Stone Bridge Crossing.