What is the Shoebox Float Contest?

• Students decorate a shoebox to resemble a parade float.
• The floats will be on display in the Roy and Helen Parke building throughout the eleven days of the Strawberry Festival.

How do you make a shoebox float?

• A shoebox float is made by using an upside-down shoe box as the base of the float.
• Optional: You may use the lid of the shoe box as the backdrop of the float.

Note: Be sure to read the rules for the length, width, and height requirements for your float.

Who can participate?

• School Students Grades 1-6
• Exceptional Learning Students

What can I decorate my float with?

• Decorate your float with fun details like glitter, sequins, buttons, ribbons or bits of fabric. Most craft stores have a wide variety of items, but also look around your home, you may have items there that are perfect for your float.

Candy/edible materials may not be used on your float as this attracts ants and bugs.

Does my float have to follow a certain theme?

• No, it does not. Although the star of our Florida Strawberry Festival is the strawberry, there is not a rule stating you have to decorate using the current festival theme or our favorite berry.

When and where do I drop off my shoebox float?

• Please drop off your shoebox float at the west end of the Roy and Helen Parke building on Tuesday, February 25th from 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

When do I pick up my shoebox float?

• Please pick up your shoebox float at the west end of the Roy and Helen Parke building on Monday, March 10th from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Is there a deadline to sign up for the contest?

• Yes, February 18, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

How will floats be judged?

Shoebox Floats will be judged individually based on the following critera:

• Originality
• Neatness
• Craftsmanship
• Use of Materials
• Overall Appearance

Shoebox Floats are separate into the following groups:

• 1st & 2nd Grade
• 3rd & 4th Grade
• 5th & 6th Grade
• Exceptional Learning Students