Morrison’s ’80s-themed Glow Parade takes place on September 7 – Shaw Local

MORRISON – Morrison’s Department of Fun is hosting a Glow Bangers Ball and parade on September 7, themed around classic culture and TV shows from the ’80s.

The party starts at 6pm with local businesses and stands opening to the public. At 7pm, the band Big Hair Mafia performs in an 80s style. Around 8pm, as it gets dark, the glow parade moves through the city.

People are encouraged to dress up in 80s costumes and wear anything that can light up as they join in the fun. At 10pm, guests can head inside to the open bars to continue the party.

Amanda Cook, member of the Fun Department, said this is the third year Morrison has hosted a glow parade.

This year, they wanted to attract more people to the festival, so they hired Big Hair Mafia, a band that has performed at larger venues, such as the Mississippi Valley Fair. The Department of Fun hopes to attract more Iowans and Quad Cities residents to the festival.

The parade encourages outside-the-box participants. In previous years, glow parade stars have included vehicles that ride alongside each other, such as power wheelers, bicycles, scooters and, in one memorable case, a motorized picnic table. Cook said they want entries with lawn mowers, tractors and other vehicles adorned with lights.

“As long as it can be illuminated,” she said.

This year’s event is based on the classic ’80s TV show “Headbanger’s Ball.” People are invited to dress in ’80s style, complete with mullets, big wigs and other accessories from the decade. Brick Block Pub will have an outdoor tent with tiki trees, and other restaurants and bars will be on hand to serve festival-goers, Cook said.

To add an entry to the parade, text 630-60-5329 or send a Facebook message to the Department of Fun with your name and vehicle type. There is a suggested donation of $5 per entry. Children are free. Prizes will be awarded for the most creative entries.