Fog

• A fog machine on a float can enhance several themes. It can make the float look spooky and scary, which works well for Halloween or horror-themed floats. It can also represent mystery, beauty and enlightenment. It can add excitement when used to represent things like rock shows or sports games. Using a fog machine on your parade float is simple. You can purchase or rent one at a party supply store and hook it up to the power that your car or truck engine draws. You can either plug the machine into the cigarette lighter, using an adapter you can find in a store, or you can plug it into a generator. Fill it with fog mixture, and you are ready to go. Fog mixture is a liquid which comes in a jug from the party supply store. The fog machine turns the liquid into a mist or vapor that looks like fog. The fog will dissipate quickly, so it isn't harmful in any way.
  
  

Rain or Water

• To present a rainy scene, or a water scene like a waterfall or ocean theme, you'll need to have running water on your parade float. Build a waterfall or another structure from which water is to fall. Have a large basin for water at the bottom of the structure. Buy a simple pond pump or pond fountain from a store. If the pump doesn't have a very long hose, replace it with a shower head or another type of long hose. Place the pump into the basin and attach the end of the shower head or hose to the top of your structure. When you plug in the pump fountain, either with an adapter into the cigarette lighter or into a generator, the water should rain from the top of the float and collect in the basin. This is a special effect that works great for island-themed floats, or even for summertime-themed floats.
  
  

Music

• Floats need music to make them more cohesive and so that parade watchers can hear them coming. Create music on your float for a special effect that will be noticed. Hire or ask several musicians to play during the parade. An electric guitar can be powered by a generator that is attached to your car or truck, and no power is needed for a small drum kit. With several live musicians on your float, your float is more exciting and interesting than the other floats that are passing by. Music can also be a way to incorporate your theme.