On this episode of Along the Rock, host Nathan Stahr talks with Melinda Jones of Rock Falls Tourism about the growing event, the creativity behind the decorated vehicles, and what spectators and participants can expect this year.
The parade was created as a way to bring the community together for a unique Halloween celebration centered entirely around decorated UTVs and golf carts. Unlike a traditional parade, no other types of vehicles are included, giving participants a chance to transform their rides into elaborate Halloween creations.
The event has continued to grow since its first year. The inaugural parade featured approximately 25 entries, and the creativity displayed by participants quickly made it one of the standout Halloween events in the area. Decorated vehicles have featured everything from elaborate characters and themes to lights, music, and special effects.
One memorable entry from last year’s parade featured a witch with flames incorporated into the design. Another popular entry was a Scooby-Doo-themed UTV, complete with participants dressed as characters from the franchise.
This year’s parade begins at 6:30 p.m. at Rock Falls High School. Participants will travel down West Second Street toward downtown before turning toward the river and continuing along First Avenue. The parade will conclude at the new Micro Parking Lot, where participants will park their vehicles so spectators can get a closer look at the decorations.
The new ending location allows spectators to see the vehicles up close after watching them travel through the city. It also provides a central location for announcing the winners of the parade’s various categories.
Judges will be stationed at Fourth Avenue and Second Street and will determine the winners. The judging is part of the fun and allows participants to compete for prizes while showing off their creativity.
Participation is open to people from Rock Falls and surrounding communities. Previous parades have attracted entries from communities including Sterling, Amboy, Chadwick, and Morrison.
Participants must register by Oct. 14. Applications are available through the annual events section of the Visit Rock Falls website, as well as through the Rock Falls Tourism office.
There are two permit options for participants. Those who already have a Rock Falls off-highway permit pay $10, while those who do not have a Rock Falls permit pay $20. Participants receive a permit that allows them to drive their golf cart throughout Rock Falls from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on the day of the event.
Vehicles coming from outside the area must be trailered to the event because golf carts and UTVs cannot travel on state roads. Participants should also be aware that certain roads, including First Avenue and Route 30, are off limits.
There is no set limit on the number of entries. The parade has averaged around 24 to 25 vehicles in its first two years, but organizers expect participation to continue growing as more people discover the event.
Participants can begin setting up at Rock Falls High School around 5 p.m., with the parade getting underway at 6:30 p.m.
There are a few basic safety and participation rules. Vehicles cannot carry more passengers than they are designed for, and passengers are not allowed to ride on trailers. Trailers can be used to transport additional decorations, however.
Participants are encouraged to throw candy to spectators along the parade route, and previous entries have also handed out glow sticks. Alcohol consumption is prohibited during the event because participants are operating vehicles on public roads.
Most importantly, vehicles must be at least 50 percent decorated. The requirement helps ensure that the parade remains focused on the elaborate Halloween displays that have made the event popular.
The cost to participate goes back into the event, with Rock Falls Tourism using the money to purchase gift cards from event sponsors for the winners.
As darkness settles in, the parade’s illuminated vehicles become the centerpiece of the event. The lights, decorations and music create a spectacle that can be seen from a distance, with some vehicles bright enough to illuminate the street as they make their way through Rock Falls.
For spectators, the Lighted UTV and Golf Cart Halloween Spooktacular offers a chance to enjoy Halloween creativity in a uniquely local setting. For participants, it is an opportunity to build something imaginative and share it with the community.
With no limit on the number of entries and participation continuing to grow, the third annual parade promises to be another memorable night in Rock Falls.
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