When are you going? There is a Christmas parade in December and Mardi Gras parade Feb-mid-April. There is also a show on water sprays with some fireworks at the Studios at closing. Sometimes a light show on Hogwarts castle in the evening.
I don’t think they do an afternoon parade anymore but certain characters and their float come out at certain times at the studios, for photos and to interact a bit with the people. In December I saw Shrek, Puss in Boots, Big Bad Wolf, and 3 blind mice out with a gingerbread house. I’ve seen Sponge Bob characters doing the same thing.