Event Planning Services: MLK Parade

The City of St. Petersburg is seeking a qualified vendor to organize and host the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Annual Parade. The selected vendor will be responsible for planning, organizing, and coordinating the parade, including developing a comprehensive parade plan, coordinating with local law enforcement and emergency services, securing necessary permits and approvals, and managing the budget. The vendor must have at least three years of experience in providing event planning services, with a focus on community collaboration. The contract term will be for three years, with one two-year renewal period, and the budget for the 2026 parade is $230,000. • The vendor must develop a comprehensive parade plan, including route logistics, staging areas, and participant guidelines. • The vendor must coordinate with local law enforcement, emergency services, and other relevant agencies. • The vendor must secure necessary permits and approvals. • The vendor must manage the budget and ensure that all expenses are within the allocated amount. • The vendor must demonstrate ability, experience, and reputation towards the following parade-specific necessities: ability to provide up to 150 volunteers, ability to secure hotel rooms for multiple marching bands and guests, ability to organize minimally 50 parade floats, and capacity to provide extensive hospitality.