After two years of covid cancellations, Wyandotte county will celebrate its 45th Dotteversity Parade on Sept. 3 along Central Avenue.
Historically, the event has included more than 50 floats, six high school marching bands, several local schools, horse clubs, vintage cars, businesses and private family floats on top of nearly 10,000 people stopping in to enjoy the day’s events on Central Avenue and in Bethany Park.
Edgar Galicia, executive director of Central Avenue Betterment Association (CABA), said the parade location is prime to Central Avenue because it’s the commercial corridor of community events. “It’s a major draw to bring people to enjoy the parade, “ he said.
The theme for this year is “Wyandotte Ethnic Diversity” and organizers are encouraging everyone to wear their most authentic mother land dresses.
According to the event website, “we want it to be a collage of all cultures that make Wyandotte County so unique.”
This year, CABA partnered with Mission Adelante and Adelante Thrift to create the Dream KCK 5K race before the Dotteversity parade. Galicia said this will help bring more people out to do different activities.
Activities continue during the day along Central Ave. and in Bethany Park at Central and 11th Street. Currently, there are 30 food vendors ranging from Mexican, Chinese, BBQ cuisines, and sweet treats. Mayor Tyrone Garner will attend and share a few words.
Here’s a partial schedule of activities:
- 9 a.m : The 5k race followed by live music
- 11 a.m.: Dotteversity Parade along Central Avenue
- 1 p.m. : “Show Down” band performances with Wyandotte High School, Washington High School, and more
- 2 p.m. : Flamenco performances- typically a solo dance involving hand clapping, percussive footwork, and intricate hand, arm, and body movements synced with a guitar or singer.
- 4 p.m. : Wrap up of the event
Galicia said that the event is an opportunity to celebrate with everybody. He said different flags will be displayed for people to be proud of their ancestry.
“It’s a blessing to be able to come back and produce the parade and invite everybody to enjoy themselves,” he said.
For those interested in floats or vending, use this link.