ABERDEEN, S.D. – Registration is now open for the 108th annual Northern State University Gypsy Day Parade, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024. Interested participants can register at northern.edu/gypsy-days.

This year, organizers have introduced new options for parade float registrations, including premium and mid-level placements. Register before Aug. 31 to take advantage of the most affordable rates. Prices will increase after this date, with the final deadline to register being Sept. 15.

Pricing Options:

  • Premium Placement: $100 (First 20 parade spots, following grand entry)
  • Mid-Level Placement: $50 (Next 20 parade spots)
  • Standard Placement: $25 (Remaining spots)
  • Horses/Livestock Entries: $50

Price Increase After Aug. 31:

  • Premium Placement: $150
  • Mid-Level Placement: $100
  • Standard Placement: $75
  • Horses/Livestock Entries: $100

Final Registration Deadline: Sept. 15

"With this new option, businesses and organizations can choose to be placed closer to the grand entry by registering for premium or mid-level placement," said Gypsy Days Committee Co-Chair and Northern State University's Director of Communications and Marketing Chad Hatzenbuhler. "This will streamline the placement process, and the additional funds will help ensure the parade's financial sustainability. Not many people know, but the parade is self-funded by registration fees. Each year, we aim to grow the parade and add more incentives for participants and the community."

The parade will begin at 9 a.m. in downtown Aberdeen. Entrants will decorate their floats based on this year's theme, "Wolves in Candy Land." A panel of judges comprised of Northern and community leaders will present awards in various categories.

Judges will vote on several awards, including the Best Float competition. The top three floats will win cash prizes and tickets to the President's Suite for a football game. Additionally, a new category for NSU Student Clubs offers a $300 prize.

Best Float Awards:

  • 1st Place: $1,000 and six tickets to the President's Suite
  • 2nd Place: $500 and four tickets to the President's Suite
  • 3rd Place: $250 and two tickets to the President's Suite

Northern's homecoming week takes place Monday, Sept. 30 – Sunday, Oct. 6, culminating with the parade and football game. Festivities will also include Wolves athletic events, the NSU Hall of Fame and Distinguished Alumni Banquet, and the coronation of a king and queen.

2024 Homecoming King Candidates:

  • Simon Bickford (Newman Center)
  • Jacob Ebeling (SAAC)
  • Braden Freeman (Honors Program)
  • Michael Grebner (Residence Hall Association)
  • Colton Wicks (TRIO Scholar Association)

2024 Homecoming Queen Candidates:

  • Ashlyn Haselhorst (Lumin Ministry)
  • Nevaeh Meyer (School of Education Clubs)
  • Madison Park (Campus Activities Board)
  • Ava Pickard (Music Department)
  • Randi Schuster (Honors Program)

For more information, visit northern.edu/gypsy-days.

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