Parade the Circle

The Cleveland Museum of Art’s (CMA) Parade the Circle, the beloved tradition celebrating art, culture, and community, returns on Saturday, June 13, 2026. The 34th annual parade takes place in University Circle and features vibrant and imaginative costumes, towering puppets, floats, and intricately crafted masks. This year’s event coincides with the CMA’s 110th anniversary as an institution and the United States Semiquincentennial.  

This year’s theme, “Momentum,” is inspired by the special exhibition American Printed Silks, 1927–1947, the lived experience of acclaimed lead artist Héctor Castellanos Lara, and the legacy and evolution of our creative community. Those interested in participating are highly encouraged to view the exhibition. Docent-led tours are available on select Wednesday evenings and Saturday afternoons. 

“I grew up between sewing machines. Surrounded by women, transforming fabric to be worn. Hands, colors, and patterns chasing one another. My own strike of marbles clacking from the patio, at play.  

The exhibition American Printed Silks took me back to that room in Guatemala, our own little industrial garment revolution, my childhood home. Much like the textile designers of the early to mid-1900s, I draw inspiration from the museum and use lived experiences to define my visual language. Our stories—some of sacrifice and resilience—are momentous and unyielding. 

Breathless and energized, our own momentum pushes us to innovate. Let’s harness the power of this creative energy together, express ourselves, and keep celebrating. Creativity in motion stays in motion. What story will you bring to the Parade?” 

Parade the Circle, which was founded by the CMA in 1990 with a small number of artists, has since grown to become a treasured large-scale event, drawing crowds in the tens of thousands every June. Families, friends, neighbors, community groups, churches, artists, performers—everyone is welcome to express their creativity, show their talent, and celebrate the arts at Parade the Circle. Every year, unique and magnificent parade designs delight participants and attendees alike. Watching the parade is free for all.  

The CMA is inviting artists to submit applications for featured artist opportunities through April 12. Those interested in performing can register their group through May 10. No new groups are accepted after this date. See below for application and registration options. 

All those performing in the parade must adhere to the event guidelines. 

For more information about attending the event or about how to get involved, please contact parade@clevelandart.org.