The Top 19 Parade Giveaway Ideas to Garner Attention at Any Event

updated

February 10, 2026

The Best Giveaways to Use as Bulk Parade Throws

From the 4th of July to Christmas to Mardi Gras, parades draw huge crowds filled with adults and kids alike, which means they are a great branding opportunity for your business or organization. If you want to capitalize and get your logo in front of the masses, then you’ll want to consider unique parade giveaways that are fun and engaging.

Not only does parade swag make excellent party favors during the event, but the right promotional items will also keep your brand top of mind long after the celebration is over. To help you get started planning, here are some of the most sought-after parade giveaway ideas for any occasion:

1. Silicone Bracelets

Known for drawing attention to important causes, silicone bracelets are some of the best personalized parade throws. They come in just about any color you could imagine, so you’ll definitely be able to find bracelets that complement your brand or message.

2. Bubble Necklace

If you want to make a fun impression, consider putting your name or logo on a bubble necklace. With these parade trinkets, bubbles will be flying throughout the event with your brand at the forefront of the festivities.

3. Sunglasses

What goes better with a sunny parade day than custom sunglasses? These parade promotional items are a cool giveaway that will leave recipients looking sharp, especially if you choose an attractive option like our stylish and budget-friendly Cruise Retro Sunglasses. Look great and protect your eyes at the same time.

4. Hand Fans

An excellent summer item to beat the heat, hand fans will drive enthusiasm when you use them as parade handouts. Of course, these parade giveaways are not only practical but also cost-effective, making them one of the best gifts under $1.

5. Can Cooler

Stretch the reach of your brand with can coolers that boldly display your message to the masses. One of the best parts of these promotional products for parades is that they are machine washable, meaning recipients can keep them looking fresh for future use.

6. Mini Flyers

Fun promotional items to throw at a parade, mini flyers are perfect for both kids and adults. Make sure you choose a flyer made from durable material like molded plastic for long-lasting use. With these custom parade throws, your brand will soar to new heights.

7. Candy

Your business or organization will have a sweet and competitive edge when you use custom candy as bulk parade throws. Crowds are sure to be delighted by these tasty sweets. Not to mention, you’ll have a variety of options to choose from, including swirl lollipops, candy fish, gummy bears and more.

Shop All Parade Giveaways

8. Stress Balls

As fun as parades are, navigating large crowds can be stressful. To help alleviate some of the anxiety, give out stress balls to parade-goers. They’ll appreciate your business for helping them relieve tension and get back to having fun. On top of having multiple color options, you’ll also be able to choose from several shapes to best fit the event.

“We recently tossed out over 500 of the stress balls at a local parade that the kids and parents alike loved them!! They are great for the kids as they are a little smaller in size making them easier for kids to handle.” – Katherine, FL Stress Relief Baseball

9. Scrunchies

Scrunchies are a 90s’ style accessory that won’t let you down. A trendy way to promote your brand, they’re guaranteed to pull your promotion together once personalized with your logo. Not to mention they’re lightweight, making them great promotional items to throw at a parade.

10. Custom Label Bottled Water

Standing in the hot sun can be draining, and parade attendees are going to be thirsty. Ensure they stay hydrated while promoting your message by handing out custom label bottled water. If you want to give out parade swag that’s longer lasting, you can also promote with inexpensive, reusable water bottles like the 20 oz Bike and Sports Bottle.

11. Beach Balls

Send your message bouncing throughout the crowd by tossing out beach balls as personalized parade handouts. A great way to have fun at any event, these giveaways are sure to get plenty of people reaching out to get a look at your brand.

12. Tattoos

Commemorate the parade with custom temporary tattoos that adults and kids will enjoy. Easy to apply and remove, recipients will be able to proudly show off your school logo or a festive design while remembering all of the fun they had after the event is over.

13. Keychains

One of the most popular ways to promote your brand, custom keychains are something everyone will use and use often. They are also cost-effective, which makes them great promotional products for parades with large crowds. To ensure your keychains stand out, consider unique options with dual functions like the Push Pop Stress Reliever Keychain.

14. Rubber Ducks

Want parade giveaway ideas that have plenty of personality? Then, look no further than classic rubber ducks customized with your message. These parade trinkets are great gifts for kids and will easily put a smile on their faces during the parade.

15. Stickers

The perfect bulk parade throws, stickers are a traditional and affordable way to get your message to the masses. You can get sticker rolls that are pre-cut, which means they’re ready to be handed out quickly to large groups of people.

16. Lip Balm

No matter the time of year, lip balm is a must-have for outdoor events, which is why they are great parade handouts. The best part is you have a ton of options to choose from, including lip balms with natural flavors, organic ingredients, and SPF protection.

17. Informational Flyers

If you really want to advertise your business or brand, informational flyers give you the ability to communicate your message effectively. From phone numbers to addresses, you’ll be able to include all of your information on a single flyer.

18. Foam Putty

Form the perfect promotion at any parade with foam putty that’s sure to be a smashing hit. Guaranteed to bring the fun, these personalized parade throws come in an assortment of cool colors that will draw attention to your logo.

19. Color Changing Reusable Plastic Cups

Color changing cups are a revolutionary way to get your name in front of large crowds. People will be talking about these custom parade throws long after the event is over, as they marvel each time the cup changes colors once cold liquid is added.

If you want to bundle multiple parade promotional items together, don’t forget to pick up plastic bags – like the 9" x 12" Biodegradable Plastic Bags – printed with your company logo or message. You can also stock up on essentials for your parade float, including a 3' x 10' Event Banner, car flags and balloons. With the right plan in place, your next parade will be a raging success.

Top Yearly Parade Occasions in the USA & What Giveaways to Bring

Many classic souvenir items, like those listed above, work for any parade, anytime, anywhere. Here are some more specialized picks for America’s favorite marching band gigs and float routes.

Fourth of July (Independence Day) Parades

July Fourth parades are typically organized by local governments, chambers of commerce, nonprofits, and community sponsors, and they call for high‑volume, family‑friendly giveaways for adults and kids alike.

Popular Independence Day parade handout ideas:

Mini Flags: Put patriotism on display with small American flags that kids and adults will wave proudly from start to finish.
Glow Sticks & Wands: Perfect if the parade rolls into an evening concert or fireworks show, adding excitement that lasts past sundown.
Cooling Towels: A premium giveaway spectators will use all day and keep for the rest of the summer—great staying power for your brand.
Sunscreen Packets: Single‑use branded packets are practical, appreciated, and help families stay protected in the sun.
Bandanas: A versatile option people can wear, wave, or tie onto their pets for an extra dose of patriotic charm.

Common colors, themes & design cues:

Red, white, and blue color palettes
Stars, stripes, fireworks, and Americana patterns
Classic or vintage patriotic styling
Simple, high‑contrast designs for visibility from a distance

Cruise Retro Sunglasses - USA

Stars & Stripes Beach Ball

MopTopper™ Patriotic Stylus Pen

Absorbent Snap Cooling Towel

Holiday & Christmas Parades

Holiday parades are often coordinated by downtown associations, municipalities, schools, churches, and local businesses. Giveaways tend to lean seasonal, cheerful, and practical.

Christmas & Holiday Parade Handout Ideas:

Knit Hats & Scarves: Keep attendees warm along chilly parade routes while giving them something they’ll reuse all winter.
Light‑Up Novelties: Light up evening routes with glow items, wands, or blinking accessories that make nighttime parades feel magical.
Reusable Shopping Bags: Provide take‑home utility with branded totes perfect for holiday shopping, gift hauling, or everyday errands.
Touchscreen Gloves: A high‑value giveaway that helps attendees take photos and videos of the parade without freezing their hands.
Hand Warmers: Simple, inexpensive branded packets that instantly warm cold fingers — always a crowd‑pleaser on winter nights.
Reflective Safety Gear: Reflective slap bracelets or stickers help families stay visible and safe during dark evening parades.
Hot Cocoa Packs: Single‑serve cocoa packets or hot‑chocolate spoons give families a cozy treat to enjoy after the parade.
Mini Plush Animals: Winter‑themed plush — like tiny bears or penguins — are adorable keepsakes children always love.
Lightweight / Mini Ornaments: Pretty, non‑breakable ornaments make charming souvenirs that won’t shatter on the route.
Hot Beverages: You’ll have to set up a cart for this one, but if you dole out hot cider or cocoa along the parade route, you’re a hero. Free branded paper cups or low-cost shatter resistant souvenir mugs will amplify goodwill.

Common colors, themes & design cues:

Red and green, white, silver, and gold accents
Snowflakes, presents, ornaments, trees, bells, Santa, elves, and snowmen
Cozy, festive, family‑friendly styling
High visibility for nighttime or dusk parades

Buffalo Plaid Mitten Ornament

Snowman Stress Ball

Dual Colors Top Pom Beanie

Pop-Out Magnet Set - Holiday

St. Patrick’s Day Parades

In many cities, St. Patrick’s Day parades involve parade committees, cultural organizations, sponsors, and hospitality brands. Wearable items are especially effective.

Popular parade handouts for St. Patrick’s Day:

Beads & Necklaces: Create instant visibility with bright green beads that paradegoers can layer on as part of their festive outfits.
Branded Hats: Top off parade outfits with bold, bright green hats—fun, wearable, and perfect for high‑visibility branding.
T‑Shirts: Turn participants into walking billboards with themed T‑shirts that boost crowd unity and get worn long after the parade.
Mini Irish Flags: Small handheld flags amp up parade energy and reinforce the “everyone is Irish today” spirit.
Bottle Opener Keychains: A portable bottle opener is a high‑utility item people attach to keys and keep for years.
Unbreakable Green Shot Glasses: A playful novelty that revelers can use or toss around safely—fun, lightweight, and unforgettable.
Recycled Stainless Steel Souvenir Cups: Light weight, light on the wallet, and green in more ways than one.
Reflective & Light‑Up Items: Shamrock strobes, glowing accessories, or light‑up yo‑yos add festive charm while improving nighttime visibility and safety.

Common colors, themes & design cues:

Shades of green with white or gold accents
Shamrocks, clovers, leprechauns, Celtic patterns, pots of gold She's already down
Bold, playful graphics that stand out in crowds
High‑contrast ink for quick recognition

Lucky Clover Stress Shape

Wooden Nickel Token

Aluminum Beverage Wrench™

Koozie® Full Color Can Cooler

Mardi Gras Parades

Mardi Gras parades—often hosted by krewes, event organizers, sponsors, and tourism groups—are built around throws.

Mardi Gras Parade Giveaway all-stars include:

Throw Beads: The absolute requirement. Mix standard round beads with "specialty" beads (larger pearls or shaped discs) to stand out.
Doubloons: Aluminum or plastic coins. People love to stomp on these or catch them mid-air. They are great for custom branding your group or "Krewe".
Plastic Cups: High-quality stadium cups are a Mardi Gras tradition. Spectators will keep and use these for years.
Masquerade Masks: Feathered or simple paper or plastic masks in the trio of colors.
LED Jewelry: Since many parades happen at night, flashing rings, bracelets, or blinking necklaces are top-tier items to throw.
Boas & Tutus: If you really want to make a splash, toss out purple, green, and gold feather boas.
Paper Crowns: In purple and gold with your ornate design fit for a King.
Noise Makers: Plastic hands that make a loud clapping sound, or whistles are a classic way to add to the chaos of the parade route.
Pro-Tip: Make sure you have tote bags to give out early. People will catch hundreds of items and need a way to haul them home!

Common colors, themes & design cues:

Purple, green, and gold
Masks, beads, crowns, fleur‑de‑lis
Metallic finishes, glitter effects, and bold fonts
Festive patterns designed to catch light mid‑air

Mardi Gras Mask

17 oz Color Splash Stadium Cup

3" X 3" Personalized Temporary Glitter Tattoos

Light The Night Wristband

Pride Parades

Pride parades commonly feature participation from corporations, nonprofits, universities, advocacy groups, and community sponsors. Giveaways emphasize expression and visibility.

Our favorite pride parade giveaway ideas:

Mini Flags: Small handheld pride flags are the most sought-after items for waving during the march.
Rainbow Drawstring Backpacks: Essential for attendees to carry all the other swag they collect throughout the day.
Sun & Safety Gear: Mini sunscreen packets, lip balm with SPF, and small hand sanitizers are highly appreciated for outdoor spring and summer events. Rainbow sunglasses are essential.
Tech Accessories: Rainbow phone wallets (card holders for the back of phones) are cheap, handy, lightweight and unbreakable.

Fidget Toys: Rainbow "Pop-It" sensory toys or finger spinners are popular with all ages.
Wearables: Bead necklaces, pins, and wrist bands, all decked out in bright multi-color stripes.

Common colors, themes & design cues:

Rainbow color palettes and gradients
Inclusive symbols, affirmations, and community messaging
Bright, celebratory designs with high saturation
Durable printing for extended wear and reuse

Pride Medallion Bead Necklace

pride rainbow button with custom imprint

Pride Button

Cruise Retro Sunglasses - Rainbow

Small Rainbow Hit Sports Pack

New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day Parades

New Year’s parades often include schools, performers, sponsors, and local organizations and are frequently photographed.

Homecoming Parades (High School & College)

Homecoming parades are supported by schools, booster clubs, alumni associations, PTAs, and student groups.

Homecoming parade handouts that pump up the crowd:

T-Shirts: Build school spirit and create a unified look for students, alumni, and fans along the parade route.
Rally Towels: Amplify crowd energy and encourage participation during cheers and performances.
Buttons: Show team pride with wearable, collectible accessories featuring school logos or slogans.
Foam Hands: Encourage cheers and visible support for the team during the parade and game.
Spirit Items: Noisemakers and pom-poms in school colors are essential for boosting crowd energy.
Body Art: Face decals and temporary tattoos offer an easy formula for instant school pride.
Reusable Water Bottles: Promote hydration while providing a lasting, eco-friendly item students can use for class and sports.
Backpacks: Help attendees collect parade giveaways and serve as a practical item for carrying books later.
School Mascots: Plush toys or stress balls featuring the school mascot create a fun, memorable keepsake.

Common colors, themes & design cues:

School colors and mascots
Slogans, chants, and spirit messaging
Bold layouts legible from sidewalks and bleachers
Durable materials suitable for youth audiences

fully custom rally towel for school sport team

Full Color Sublimated Rally Towel 15" x 18"

2D Custom-Molded Clog Shoe Charms

PopSockets PopGrip for MagSafe

Gildan® Softstyle® T-Shirt

Veterans Day & Memorial Day Parades

These parades are commonly organized by municipalities, veterans’ organizations, service groups, and community nonprofits.

Here are some appropriate handouts for Veterans Day & Memorial Day Parades:

Buttons & Pins: Offer subtle recognition and respect.
Small Handheld American Flags: The absolute standard. Look for those with golden spear tips for a more formal look.
Red Poppy Pins or Stickers: Specifically for Memorial Day, the red poppy is the universal symbol of remembrance.
Patriotic Caps & Hats: Veterans, service men and women, families and patriots alike love these.
"Thank You" Cards/Postcards: Pre-printed cards that attendees can sign and drop off at local VA hospitals or VFW posts.
Military Branch Magnets: Oval or ribbon-shaped magnets for cars or refrigerators.
QR Code Appreciation Cards: Small cards with a QR code linking to a "wall of honor" or a page where people can donate to local veteran charities.