Monday, August 23, 2010, is the entry deadline for the 2010 Rock Island Labor Day Parade. The 26th annual event is scheduled for Monday, September 6, 2010.

This year's Labor Day Parade theme is "Learning Comes to Life!" It was selected to acknowledge the many ways we learn or receive education. Ideas to consider include walking books, an entry honoring teachers, a float inspired by music or a painting, dancing computers, a particular story brought to life, members of a team, a family on vacation, or graduates of a particular class or program.

Non-theme related entries are always welcome. The Labor Day parade provides an excellent opportunity to promote an organization, to announce a special promotion, or to call attention to an upcoming special event.

Parade organizers are excited about the number of musical groups returning to this year's line-up. The Western Illinois University Marching Band will be back for a 12th year along with high school marching bands from Alleman and Rock Island. The outstanding Metropolitan Drill Team or "MetroSteppers" and the Blackhawk Bagpipers are also returning to the line-up.

Staging for the parade begins at 8:30 a.m. in the area around Washington Junior High School, located at 33rd St. and 18th Ave., with the start of the parade set at 9:30 a.m. The parade route travels west along 18th Ave., beginning at 33rd St., turns left on 24th St., and then right on 25th Ave. and disbands into the parking areas at Rock Island High School at 25th Ave. and 17th Street. The parade route is approximately two miles long.

The first Rock Island Labor Day Parade was held in 1984 as part of the Rock Island's Sesquicentennial (150th Birthday) Celebration. Over the past 26 years, the parade has grown into a popular event that averages 150 entries and draws thousands of spectators.

Interested parties should contact the City of Rock Island at 732-2923 for more information. Parade information and an entry form are also available from the City's website at www.rigov.org.

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