Selecting Your Costume
To preview this year’s costumes, visit the Costume Viewer. Checking the descriptions carefully when selecting a costume will make the volunteer more comfortable with their choice. A few tips to help your volunteers choose the best costume for themselves:
1. Most costumes (with the exception of characters that ride on the floats) require two 6-pound batteries – this is indicated in each costume description. The batteries are strapped onto a harness that the volunteer wears under the costume. There are battery-free costumes available for those who do not wish to carry the batteries.
2. Height: Some costumes have specific height requirements – these are noted in the descriptions. All other costumes require a height of at least 5’ tall, unless marked for children.
3. Size: Specific size requirements are noted for certain costumes. Abiding by the following guidelines when signing up for costumes will ensure volunteers get the costumes they want:
a. “Any” means the costume will accommodate any size S-XXL.
b. “Avg” means chest size 38-44” for men; and/or sizes 8-14 for women.
4. Face: “enclosed” or “full head” means faces will be completely covered. These costumes are NOT the choice for those who are claustrophobic or wear glasses, or if they want spectators to see who they are.
5. Gender: Some costumes are marked for a specific gender such as Goldilocks, who is female. Unless indicated, all other costumes are for either male or female.
6. The parade lineup is subject to change. Floats may change around to create a smoother parade on some nights. While this does not happen often, it may happen on your night.
If there are questions about specific costumes, please email Evan Carpenter at evanc@downtownminneapolis.com or call our offices at 612-338-3807.
Getting Ready for the Parade – Six tips for a successful Macy’s Holidazzle experience
1. Be sure to dress appropriately for the Minnesota weather! Wear a warm hat and gloves as these are not provided.
2. Check-in at the volunteer desk on the 2nd level of the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis. Check-in begins at 5:00 p.m. Please note that if you are later than 5:45 p.m., we cannot guarantee your costume and will assign you another one, if availability remains. When you check-in you will need to give your name and the costume you signed up for to the check-in person prior to getting dressed. Upon check-in, the staff will direct you to your costume and a dresser will help you get ready.
3. Exit the dressing room and have your picture taken. Proceed to your place in the parade – pacers will help direct you to your unit location.
4. Absolutely No Smoking, Eating or Drinking while in costume! Please do not lean against any walls or sit on your costume.
5. At the end of the parade route, take the provided Metro Transit bus back to the hotel. Under no circumstances should anyone walk back to the hotel.
6. Back at the hotel, a dresser will help you disassemble. Remember to pick up your photo at the check-in desk on your way out. Start planning which costume you will be next year!