Western Golf Cart: 11 Easy Decorating Ideas for Parades

Ready to turn your golf cart into the talk of the parade? If you’re looking for creative but easy western golf cart decorating ideas, you know the challenge is making it look amazing without a huge hassle. You want that “wow” factor, but need simple, actionable steps.

Transforming your golf cart into a captivating Western-themed parade float is easier than you think with these 11 creative and budget-friendly ideas. This guide provides step-by-step instructions, essential supplies, and expert tips to make your western golf cart stand out in any parade. It’s time to saddle up for some serious fun.

Drawing from established best practices and proven DIY methodologies, we’ll show you exactly how to get that authentic cowboy look. This post will guide you through creating a head-turning parade entry that’s both safe and spectacular. You’ll discover how to easily implement each idea for maximum impact.

Unleash Your Inner Cowboy: Western Golf Cart Decorating Ideas for Parades

The joy of seeing a fleet of creatively decorated golf carts rolling down a parade route is a community highlight. Transforming a standard utility vehicle into a mobile work of art brings out the fun and competitive spirit in everyone. A western theme is a timeless classic, offering a rich tapestry of iconic visuals—from rugged cowboy golf cart ideas to charming country western golf cart designs. It allows for a wide range of creativity, whether you’re aiming for an authentic Old West feel or a more playful, modern interpretation. This guide is built to help you tap into that spirit, ensuring your creation is not only visually stunning but also practical and safe for a parade environment.

11 Easy Decorating Ideas for Your Western Golf Cart Parade Float

Here are 11 easy-to-follow ideas to turn your golf cart into an award-winning western themed parade float. Each concept includes a list of necessary supplies and a simple step-by-step guide to bring your vision to life. We’ve focused on accessible materials and straightforward techniques, proving that you don’t need to be a professional float builder to create something truly special. From subtle western accents to full-blown thematic transformations, these ideas are designed for maximum visual impact with minimal stress, perfect for any golf cart parade.

1. Rustic Wagon Wheel Accents

Pin this rustic wagon wheel idea for your next parade!

Supplies & Materials

• Lightweight decorative wagon wheel replicas (2-4, suitable for vehicle mounting)
• Heavy-duty zip ties or weather-resistant mounting brackets (for secure attachment)
• Weathered wood-look spray paint (optional, for aging effect)
• Measuring tape and marker
• Drill (if using mounting brackets)

How to Create This Look

1. Measure and Position: Hold wagon wheel replicas against the sides of your golf cart or hubcaps to determine optimal placement, ensuring they don’t interfere with wheel rotation or driver visibility.
2. Weathering (Optional): If desired, lightly spray paint the replicas with a weathered wood-look paint for an aged, rustic aesthetic. Allow to dry completely.
3. Secure with Zip Ties: For temporary attachment, use heavy-duty zip ties to fasten the wagon wheels to existing golf cart frames or hubcaps. Ensure ties are tight and trimmed.
4. Mount with Brackets (More Permanent): For a more secure or semi-permanent setup, use small, sturdy mounting brackets. Mark and pre-drill holes (if necessary) before securing the brackets and then attaching the wagon wheel replicas.
5. Check for Stability: Gently tug on each attached wagon wheel to ensure it’s firmly secured and won’t wobble or detach during the parade.

Pro-Tip: For the most authentic yet lightweight look, seek out decorative wagon wheels made from resin or plastic that can be easily painted. Real wooden wagon wheels are often too heavy and could pose a safety hazard or damage the golf cart’s structure. Consider the overall structural integrity when attaching any decor.

2. Hay Bale & Burlap Seating

Save this cozy hay bale seating idea for your western themed golf cart!

Supplies & Materials

• Faux hay bales (lightweight, fire-retardant, size appropriate for golf cart seats)
• Burlap fabric (enough to drape over hay bales and secure)
• Heavy-duty twine or rope
• Non-slip matting (optional, for under hay bales)
• Scissors

How to Create This Look

1. Prepare Hay Bales: If using real hay bales, ensure they are dry and consider placing them in plastic bags first to minimize mess. For best practice, use faux hay bales due to fire safety and mess concerns.
2. Position Hay Bales: Place the hay bales directly onto the existing golf cart seats. If needed, use non-slip matting underneath to prevent shifting.
3. Drape with Burlap: Carefully drape the burlap fabric over the hay bales, allowing it to flow naturally. Tuck edges for a neat appearance or leave them frayed for a more rugged look.
4. Secure Seating: Use heavy-duty twine or rope to tie the hay bales and burlap securely to the golf cart’s frame or seat bases. Ensure they won’t shift or fall off during movement, addressing safe attachment and falling off concerns.
5. Check Comfort & Visibility: Sit on the “new” seats to ensure they are stable and comfortable. Verify that they do not block the driver’s vision or access to controls.

Pro-Tip: Using fire-retardant faux hay bales is highly recommended for parade safety, especially if your golf cart has electrical components or will be near heat sources. Also, ensure the burlap is tightly secured to prevent wind resistance issues during the parade.

3. Lasso & Rope Trim Details

Adorn your western golf cart with authentic lasso details! Pin this idea.

Supplies & Materials

• Decorative lassos (1-3, depending on desired coverage)
• Natural fiber rope (jute, sisal, or hemp; 10-20 feet)
• Heavy-duty zip ties or clear fishing line
• Hot glue gun with strong adhesive (optional, for small accents)
• Scissors

How to Create This Look

1. Plan Placement: Determine where you want the lassos and rope. Popular spots include around the steering wheel, along the roofline, fenders, or side panels.
2. Drape Lassos: Gently coil and drape lassos in key areas, such as over the front grill, tied to door handles, or hanging from the roof supports.
3. Apply Rope Trim: Use the natural fiber rope to create decorative borders. Wrap it around poles, along the edge of the roof, or to outline parts of the golf cart’s body.
4. Secure Elements: Use heavy-duty zip ties or clear fishing line to discreetly fasten the lassos and rope in place. For small, non-structural attachments, a hot glue gun can be used. Ensure all elements are tightly secured to prevent them from falling off due to wind or motion.
5. Check for Snags: Ensure no loose ends or loops could snag on passersby or vehicle parts.

Pro-Tip: For a truly authentic look, try to source actual, slightly used lassos (clean them thoroughly!) rather than new, brightly colored ones. The weathered texture adds significant authentic western feel. Pay close attention to safe attachment to avoid distraction while driving.

4. Cowhide Patterns & Faux Leather Accents

Upgrade your golf cart with chic cowhide and faux leather! Pin for later.

Supplies & Materials

• Faux cowhide pattern fabric or adhesive vinyl sheets
• Faux leather fabric or adhesive trim tape
• Heavy-duty spray adhesive (for fabric)
• Scissors or utility knife
• Measuring tape
• Staple gun (for seat covers) or adhesive primer (for vinyl)

How to Create This Look

1. Choose Your Surface: Decide which areas will feature cowhide or faux leather – seats, dashboard, armrests, or even the roof.
2. Measure and Cut: Carefully measure the chosen surfaces and cut the faux cowhide fabric or adhesive vinyl to size, allowing for extra material for wrapping edges.
3. Apply Cowhide Pattern: For fabric, use heavy-duty spray adhesive to firmly attach the cowhide pattern to the desired area, smoothing out any bubbles. For adhesive vinyl, slowly peel the backing and apply, pressing firmly.
4. Add Faux Leather Accents: Use faux leather fabric or trim tape to create borders, cover seams, or add small decorative elements to complement the cowhide.
5. Secure & Finish: If covering seats, use a staple gun to secure the fabric underneath. Ensure all edges are neat and tightly adhered to prevent peeling, addressing non-permanent solutions and easy removal.

Pro-Tip: For areas exposed to the elements, choose UV resistant burlap or automotive grade vinyl with a cowhide pattern to ensure the design holds up against sun and rain, preventing premature fading or peeling. This guarantees a durable construction that lasts beyond one parade.

5. Sheriff’s Office or Saloon Facade

Transform your golf cart into an Old West Sheriff’s Office! Pin for parade inspiration.

Supplies & Materials

• Large cardboard sheets or thin foam board
• Utility knife and cutting mat
• Strong adhesive or hot glue gun
• Paint (browns, reds, blacks, white for distressed wood or brick look)
• Paintbrushes
• Sheriff badge replicas, “Wanted” posters, or saloon signs
• Small hinges (for swinging doors, optional)
• Velcro strips or zip ties (for attaching to golf cart)

How to Create This Look

1. Design the Facade: Sketch your desired Sheriff’s Office or Saloon facade dimensions to fit the front or side of your golf cart, ensuring it doesn’t block the driver’s vision or controls.
2. Cut Materials: Use a utility knife to carefully cut the cardboard or foam board into the shapes for walls, doors, and a roofline.
3. Assemble Structure: Use strong adhesive or a hot glue gun to assemble the pieces into a freestanding facade. If adding swinging doors, attach them with small hinges.
4. Paint & Decorate: Paint the facade to resemble weathered wood or brick. Add details like “Sheriff’s Office” or “Saloon” signage, “Wanted” posters, and prominently display a sheriff badge.
5. Attach to Golf Cart: Use heavy-duty Velcro strips or zip ties to secure the lightweight facade to the golf cart’s frame, roof supports, or bumper. Ensure it’s stable and won’t obstruct driver visibility.

Pro-Tip: Keep the facade lightweight to avoid affecting the golf cart’s balance and battery life. Foam board is an excellent choice for a sturdy yet light structure, ensuring aerodynamics of decor are considered to prevent wind resistance from damaging the display.

6. Desert Landscape & Cactus Props

Bring the desert to your golf cart with these cactus ideas! Pin for your western golf cart.

Supplies & Materials

• Assorted sizes of lightweight faux cacti and succulents
• Faux sand or small decorative pebbles (in mesh bags for easy handling)
• Small tumbleweeds (decorative, faux)
• Heavy-duty double-sided outdoor tape or industrial-strength Velcro
• Zip ties (for larger items)

How to Create This Look

1. Clean Surface: Ensure the surfaces where you’ll place the desert landscape elements (e.g., roof, rear storage area) are clean and dry.
2. Arrange Base: Lightly sprinkle faux sand or arrange mesh bags of pebbles to create a base for your desert scene.
3. Position Cacti & Props: Place the various faux cacti, succulents, and tumbleweeds strategically across the designated areas to create a natural-looking desert landscape.
4. Secure Elements: Use heavy-duty outdoor tape or Velcro to firmly attach smaller cacti and elements. For larger cactus props or those placed in higher-wind areas, use zip ties to mount them to the golf cart’s frame or roof supports.
5. Final Check: Drive the golf cart slowly for a test run to ensure all cactus props and desert elements are securely fastened and won’t shift or fall off.

Pro-Tip: Choose faux cacti made from UV-resistant materials to prevent fading and cracking under sun exposure. For added visual interest, consider creating different heights and groupings to make your miniature desert landscape more dynamic and realistic.

7. Bandana Bunting & Flag Decor

Brighten your western golf cart with fun bandana bunting! Pin this festive idea.

Supplies & Materials

• Assorted western-patterned bandanas (10-20, depending on desired length)
• Strong twine or narrow ribbon
• Small themed flags (e.g., “Wanted,” cowboy boots, American flag)
• Small zip ties or clothespins
• Scissors

How to Create This Look

1. Prepare Bandanas: Lay out your bandanas and decide on a color or pattern sequence.
2. Create Bunting: Fold each bandana diagonally into a triangle. Drape the folded edge over the twine/ribbon and secure with a small knot, safety pin, or clothespin, creating a continuous line of bunting.
3. Attach Flags: Use small zip ties to fasten themed flags to the golf cart’s roof supports, antenna, or a dedicated flag pole.
4. Hang Bunting: Drape the bandana bunting along the golf cart’s roofline, across the windshield frame, or along the side panels. Use small zip ties or additional ribbon to secure the bunting at various points.
5. Check for Snags & Visibility: Ensure the bunting and flags are securely mounted and do not block driver vision or interfere with moving parts. They should be able to flutter freely without getting tangled.

Pro-Tip: For added whimsy and to catch attention, string battery-operated fairy lights through your bandana bunting for evening parades. This ensures your western golf cart glows and enhances the festive atmosphere.

8. Thematic Lighting for Evening Parades

Light up your western golf cart! Pin this brilliant parade lighting idea.

Supplies & Materials

• Battery-operated LED string lights (warm white or amber, preferably outdoor-rated)
• Faux flame lanterns (battery-operated)
• Small, themed spotlights (e.g., to highlight a sheriff badge)
• Heavy-duty zip ties or electrical tape
• Extra AA/AAA batteries or power bank
• Outdoor-rated extension cords (if using a larger power source)

How to Create This Look

1. Plan Light Placement: Decide where you want your lights to highlight the golf cart’s western features – around the roofline, under the dashboard, outlining wheel wells, or accenting props.
2. Install String Lights: Use zip ties or electrical tape to fasten the LED string lights securely to the golf cart’s frame, roof supports, or along the edges of your facade. Ensure all wiring is neatly tucked away and waterproofed if necessary.
3. Place Lanterns & Spotlights: Position faux flame lanterns on flat surfaces like the roof or rear platform, ensuring they are stable. Use small spotlights to draw attention to specific western accents like a sheriff badge or a prominent cactus prop.
4. Connect Power: Use fresh batteries for all battery-operated lights. If using multiple light strands or a larger power source, manage voltage considerations carefully, ensuring the battery drain is minimal or planned for.
5. Test Lights: Before the parade, test all lights in the dark to ensure they are working correctly, are visible, and create the desired mood & atmosphere.

Pro-Tip: For a truly magical effect, incorporate LED lighting integration that can change colors or flicker to mimic campfire glow. Remember to have extra batteries on hand, or consider a dedicated power bank, to avoid battery drain halfway through the parade route.

9. Worn Denim & Rustic Fabric Accents

Add worn denim and rustic fabrics to your western golf cart! Pin for comfort and style.

Supplies & Materials

• Old denim jeans or jackets, or new denim fabric by the yard
• Other rustic fabrics like flannel, plaid, or ticking stripe
• Scissors
• Fabric adhesive or heavy-duty staple gun
• Sewing machine (optional, for custom covers)
• Fabric protector spray (outdoor-rated)

How to Create This Look

1. Gather Fabrics: Collect old denim clothing or purchase new denim and other rustic fabrics. Consider patterns like plaid or bandana prints for added western accents.
2. Measure & Cut: Measure the golf cart seats, armrests, or other areas you wish to cover or accent. Cut the denim and rustic fabrics to size.
3. Create Covers/Accents: For a no-sew option, use strong fabric adhesive to wrap denim around seat cushions, securing it underneath. Alternatively, you can sew simple slipcovers. Use smaller fabric pieces to create decorative patches or burlap textures on existing surfaces.
4. Secure Fabrics: Use a staple gun for more permanent upholstery on seat bases or foam. For temporary draping, small safety pins or Velcro strips can secure the fabrics.
5. Protect & Finish: Lightly spray all fabric elements with an outdoor-rated fabric protector spray to help weatherproof them against moisture and sun.

Pro-Tip: Salvaged denim can offer a wonderfully worn denim look that’s perfect for a rustic western golf cart. To ensure it holds up, pre-wash the fabric and consider adding a waterproof backing if it will be exposed to rain.

10. Horseshoe Decor & Metal Accents

Good luck and style! Pin this horseshoe decor idea for your western golf cart.

Supplies & Materials

• Decorative horseshoes (real or lightweight replicas)
• Western-themed metal conchos, stars, or buckles
• Heavy-duty adhesive (e.g., construction adhesive or epoxy)
• Small screws or bolts (if mounting directly into the frame)
• Drill (if using screws/bolts)
• Rust-inhibiting primer and paint (for real horseshoes)
• Cleaning supplies (for preparing surfaces)

How to Create This Look

1. Prepare Metal Items: If using real horseshoes, clean them thoroughly. Apply rust-inhibiting primer and then paint them if desired (e.g., black, brown, or faux rust).
2. Plan Placement: Determine key areas for your horseshoe decor and metal accents, such as the front grill, side panels, dashboard, or roof supports.
3. Attach with Adhesive: For lightweight items or surfaces where drilling isn’t feasible, use a heavy-duty adhesive. Apply the adhesive to the back of the horseshoe or metal accent and press firmly onto the clean golf cart surface. Allow ample drying time.
4. Secure with Hardware: For heavier items or if you prefer a more permanent fixture, drill small pilot holes and use appropriate screws or bolts to mount the items directly to the golf cart’s frame or sturdy plastic panels.
5. Check for Stability: Ensure all horseshoe decor and metal accents are firmly secured and won’t vibrate loose or fall off during the parade.

Pro-Tip: To prevent rust stains on your golf cart, always use rust-proof or thoroughly treated metal elements. For real horseshoes, a clear coat sealant after painting will provide an extra layer of weatherproofing for durable construction that lasts.

11. Custom Western Golf Cart Banner & Signage

Personalize your western golf cart with a custom banner! Pin this idea.

Supplies & Materials

• Burlap fabric, canvas, or outdoor vinyl sheet
• Stencils or western font templates
• Fabric paint or outdoor-rated acrylic paint
• Paintbrushes or foam applicators
• Strong rope or twine
• Grommets and grommet tool kit (optional, for secure hanging)
• Heavy-duty zip ties or bungee cords

How to Create This Look

1. Choose Material & Message: Select a material suitable for outdoor use. Decide on the text for your banner (e.g., “Wild West Wanderers,” “Rodeo Ready,” your family name).
2. Design & Paint: Use stencils or freehand draw your message in a bold western font onto the banner material. Allow paint to dry completely.
3. Finish Edges: Hem the edges of fabric banners to prevent fraying or add grommets along the top and bottom edges for durability when hanging.
4. Attach to Golf Cart: Use strong rope or twine threaded through grommets (or reinforced holes) to hang the banner. Secure it tightly to the golf cart’s roof supports, front grill, or rear frame using heavy-duty zip ties or bungee cords.
5. Ensure Visibility: Stand back and check that the banner is taut, clearly visible, and does not block driver vision or any crucial golf cart functions.

Pro-Tip: Laminating paper signs or using waterproof vinyl for your custom signage will ensure it withstands unexpected rain or humidity during a parade, maintaining its professional results and visual impact.

Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to Western Golf Cart Decorating Ideas

• Safety First for Parade Decor: Always prioritize safety by using lightweight, securely mounted decorations and ensuring driver visibility is never compromised. Consider parade safety guidelines.
• Embrace Authentic Western Elements: Incorporate iconic items like wagon wheels, lassos, hay bales, and cowhide patterns to achieve a truly authentic western feel.
• Durability for Outdoor Displays: Choose weather-resistant materials for fabrics, lights, and props to ensure your western golf cart decor withstands the elements during an outdoor parade.
• Personalize Your Parade Float: Use custom western golf cart banners or unique signage to add a personal touch and clearly identify your themed entry.
• Lighting is Key for Evening Events: Integrate thematic LED string lights or faux flame lanterns to make your western golf cart stand out and shine brightly in night parades.
• DIY Creativity Saves Budget: Many stunning western golf cart decorating ideas can be achieved with budget-friendly DIY approaches, utilizing readily available materials like burlap and denim fabric.

FAQs About western golf cart decorating ideas

How to decorate a golf cart for a western parade?

To decorate a golf cart for a western parade, focus on iconic elements like **hay bales, lassos, wagon wheels, and cowhide patterns, securely attaching them to the cart’s exterior.** Start by choosing a specific western theme (e.g., Old West town, ranch) and gather lightweight, weather-resistant materials. Ensure all decorations are firmly mounted to withstand movement and do not obstruct driver visibility for parade safety.

How do you attach hay bales to a golf cart?

To attach **hay bales to a golf cart, especially faux ones for fire safety, first place non-slip matting underneath them to prevent shifting.** Then, use heavy-duty twine or rope to tightly secure the hay bales to the golf cart’s frame or seat bases. For real hay, consider covering them with burlap fabric and wrapping them in plastic to minimize mess and reduce fire risk.

Can you use a real saddle on a golf cart?

While possible, using a real saddle on a golf cart is generally not recommended due to its weight, bulk, and potential for **blocking vision or creating safety hazards.** A lightweight replica saddle or a western-themed seat cover with faux leather accents offers a safer, more practical alternative. If opting for a real saddle, ensure it’s securely mounted and does not impede movement or balance.

Where to buy western golf cart accessories?

You can find **western golf cart accessories at specialty golf cart dealerships, online retailers like Amazon, or craft stores for DIY components.** Look for items such as cowhide pattern seat covers, decorative lassos, wagon wheel replicas, and western-themed flags. Consider themed decoration kits for a cohesive look or individual pieces to customize your ride.

How to make a golf cart look like a stagecoach?

To make a golf cart look like a stagecoach, construct a lightweight wooden or foam board facade resembling a stagecoach body, complete with arched roof and windows. Paint it with weathered wood look colors and add details like wagon wheel accents on the sides. Incorporate faux leather accents for doors, horseshoe decor, and secure a custom western golf cart banner on top.

What materials are best for western golf cart decor?

The best materials for **western golf cart decor are lightweight, durable, and weather-resistant, such as faux cowhide pattern vinyl, UV resistant burlap, and synthetic natural fiber rope.** Foam board or thick cardboard (treated for weather) is ideal for facades. Battery-operated LED lights are perfect for safe, thematic lighting, ensuring durable construction for your western golf cart.

How to secure cowboy hats on a moving golf cart?

To secure **cowboy hats on a moving golf cart, use strong elastic bands, fishing line, or small zip ties to fasten them to the cart’s roof, roll bars, or interior elements.** For passengers wearing hats, ensure they fit snugly or are held during movement. Avoid placing hats in areas where they could block driver vision or easily fly off due to wind resistance.

Is it safe to decorate golf cart wheels?

Yes, it is safe to decorate **golf cart wheels provided the decorations are lightweight, securely mounted, and do not interfere with the wheel’s rotation or wheel clearance.** Options include attaching lightweight wagon wheel replicas or using themed hubcap covers. Ensure nothing is dangling that could get caught in moving parts for parade safety.

How much does it cost to decorate a golf cart?

The cost to decorate a **golf cart varies widely depending on the scale and materials, ranging from budget limits friendly DIY solutions (under $100) to elaborate custom builds (several hundred dollars).** Factors include purchasing new vs. repurposed items, the extent of the western golf cart theme, and whether you buy pre-made themed decoration kits or source individual components for your diy decorating tips.

How to protect western golf cart decor from rain?

To protect **western golf cart decor from rain, use outdoor-rated, weatherproof materials like UV resistant burlap, marine-grade vinyl for cowhide patterns, and weatherproofing electronics for any lighting.** For fabric items, apply a fabric protector spray. Consider temporary covers or easily removable elements for unexpected downpours.

Final Thoughts on Western Golf Cart Decorating Ideas

Transforming your ordinary golf cart into an extraordinary western-themed parade float is an exciting project that blends creativity with practicality. By focusing on iconic elements like rustic wagon wheel accents, cozy hay bale seating, detailed lasso and rope trim, and vibrant bandana bunting, you can achieve a truly authentic and eye-catching display. Remember that attention to detail, secure attachment, and consideration for parade safety are paramount to a successful and enjoyable experience.

Whether you opt for a bold Sheriff’s Office facade or a subtle scattering of desert landscape props, each decorative choice contributes to the overall narrative of your custom western golf cart. We’ve covered 11 easy decorating ideas designed to inspire and guide you, emphasizing durable, weather-resistant materials and smart DIY techniques. With these expert tips and a little ingenuity, your western golf cart will not only turn heads but also become a memorable highlight of any parade.

Now that you’re armed with a bounty of western golf cart decorating ideas, which theme will you wrangle for your next parade, and what unique western accents will you incorporate to make your golf cart truly stand out?

Last update on 2025-12-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API