115th Annual Annie Malone May Day Parade

The Annual Annie Malone May Day Parade is our agency’s largest fundraiser. Due to the ongoing impact of the pandemic, the needs of the community that we serve have increased. The May Day Parade helps fund our programs including our 24-hour crisis center, substance abuse counseling, parent advocacy as well as expenses related to the parade. This year we are asking group participants to pay a small fee between $15 - $25/person (for example your group of 50 would be $1000 or $20/person). Thank you for your continued support.

The Annie Malone May Day Parade is one of the oldest and largest parades in the area. In 1910, the first May Day Parade was held. The parade for many years was held in north St. Louis, however as the size of participants and spectators grew, it was moved to Downtown St. Louis. Today, the parade has grown to be the 2nd largest African-American parade in the country with over 3,500 participants and 30,000 spectators. The parade is our agency’s largest fundraiser with proceeds covering both direct program costs and operating expenses not covered by other sources of revenue.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and Where is the Annie Malone May Day Parade?

The 115^th Annual Annie Malone May Day Parade will be held Sunday, May 18, 2025 at 1 pm in downtown St. Louis.

Where Do I Pick up Registration Package?

Information packets will be issued at the MANDATORY meeting on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 9 a.m. at Annie Malone's Page location, 5355 Page Blvd., St. Louis, MO.

Will I be able to walk alongside a vehicle in the car parade?

Due to safety concerns, no one will be allowed to walk alongside a moving vehicle. However, individuals may walk near their float if a wheel walker is located along each wheel. A wheel walker is a person who walks next to the float, (by the wheels) to prevent anyone from trying to get items on the ground, climbing on (or off) and who could notify the driver of any problems that would require immediate action for the safety of all. The wheel walker is an important measure in the safety of the parade. One wheel walker is required for each wheel.

What if I have additional participants than my level allows?

Levels established on the website are for safety and planning purposes. If you have additional participants, please purchase the level that matches your number of participants.

What if it rains?

We will proceed rain or shine. NO REFUNDS

Where do the proceeds go?

The parade is our agency’s largest fundraiser with proceeds covering both direct program costs and operating expenses not covered by other sources of revenue. Our services include a 24-hour crisis center, K-12 school, substance abuse and recovery programs, and parenting advocacy and education programs. For 134 years, Annie Malone has been a home…a pillar of strength and safety to children and families in crisis.

Do I need to have a team?

Yes, all groups are registered as ‘teams’.

How do I submit my additional required information such as Certificate of Insurance or permits?

Visit your participant dashboard and you can upload it there.

Where do I park?

Parking details will be given to team captains during the MANDATORY meeting on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 9 a.m. at Annie Malone's Page location, 5355 Page Blvd., St. Louis, MO.

What are float requirements for judging?

Judging requirements are TBD

Additional questions may be answered in the Parade Rules.