Balloon Handlers

Balloon Handlers

One of DC's largest spectator events, the energy-filled National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade® presented by Events DC runs for 10 blocks along iconic Constitution Avenue. Giant colorful helium balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands from across the country, celebrity entertainers, and performers burst down the Parade route in a grand spectacle of music and showmanship seen only once a year during the Festival. This is a great volunteer position for groups looking to participate together and be in a parade!

• Volunteers in this role MUST be 18 or older**

Check-in at: Volunteer Check-In Tent on 9th Street NW and Madison Drive NW

Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026

Primary Responsibilities:

• Hold giant helium balloons down the parade route (requiring moderate upper body strength to hold firmly onto the ropes)
• Must be able to stand for the duration of your shift and walk the length of the Parade route while carrying a Parade Balloon (approximately 10 blocks)
• Able to keep proper spacing between Parade Elements for timing purposes
• Be patient and prepared for all of the "hurry up and wait" moments
• Keep a smile on! You may be on national television!

Secondary Responsibilities:

• Arrive on-time and prepared for the weather (this event is rain or shine!) with the proper Parade Uniform
• Be flexible as volunteer needs come up! Sometimes we need to move volunteers to different balloons or roles

Parade Uniform:

• Long Black Pants and Parade Volunteer T-shirt
• Volunteer T-shirt must ALWAYS be the outermost layer of clothing
• Check the weather and come prepared with under-layers as necessary
• Comfortable, Closed-Toed Shoes
• No hats, but sunglasses are okay
• Limit your personal belongings, there is no secure storage available
• ABSOLUTELY NO BACKPACKS OR BAGS ARE ALLOWED*