Caterpillar Parade kicks off April 11 spring festivities
By Sherry Lucas
The annual Caterpillar Parade has wormed its way into the heart of Clinton. Look for the 2026 version to embark on its festive crawl through downtown on Saturday, April 11, starting at Lions Club Park.
“It is heartwarming to hear people reference coming to the parade,” Main Street Clinton Program Director Tara Lytal said. “It holds a special place in the hearts of many young adults and parents.”
The Caterpillar Parade begins with a reading of The Very Hungry Caterpillar at Lions Club Park at 9:30 a.m., followed by the crowning of the 2026 Caterpillar Queen at 9:45 a.m. Participants then line up and step off for the parade at 10 a.m., led by the grand marshal, golf cart floats, a marching band and Calliope the Caterpillar.
“Viewing along any street on the route is good,” Main Street Clinton Assistant Jackie Massey said. “East Street is always high energy,”
It seems the number of parade golf cart floats is on the increase, she said, though their use is still a bit novel in the Clinton community.
The Caterpillar Parade’s appeal works on several levels: the enticement for families to gather in Olde Towne to enjoy the beautiful spring weather outdoors; the good, wholesome fun of bright costumes and camaraderie; participation doesn’t require a lot of planning; and homemade whimsy is appreciated.
“We encourage people to walk in the parade, or, if they can, ride in the golf cart parade,” Lytal said. The vicinity of Cups is another good vantage point for spectators.
The Caterpillar Parade usually attracts about 800 to 1,000 people, and the adjacent Spring into Green Market, also in Olde Towne that day, pulls in around 2,000.
Main Street Clinton urges businesses and citizenry to creatively channel their spring fever, with a decorating contest, as well. Winners are announced at the start of the parade.
9:30 AM – Reading of The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Lions Club Park on W. Leake
9:45 AM – Crowning of 2026 Caterpillar Parade
10:00 AM – Caterpillar Parade Begins, Lions Club Park to East, Main, and Jefferson Street
