The America’s Thanksgiving Parade in Detroit is televised live locally on WDIV-TV, local channel 4. I get up early on Thanksgiving and get everything for dinner prepped and ready to go. That way I can watch as much of the Parades as possible. Yes, parades. I tend to flip back and forth between the Macy’s Parade and the America’s Parade depending on whats happening. I have always thought how much fun it would be to go and since it’s only an hour from my house, it IS possible…….

Grandstand seat tickets run from $45 – $65 per person depending on the location on the route. Plus figure in a hefty fee for parking. That is one thing about going to events in Detroit, you pay almost as much for parking as the event ticket itself.

Parade Events:

Parade Studio Tours

A behind the scenes look at the Parade.

Explore the 200,000 square-foot storyland of floats and see how they are brought to life
The world’s largest collection of papier-mâché heads that resemble local icons and famous characters
The Parade Company costume shop is warehouses over 3,000 costumes
Tours are by Reservation only and there are no tours the week of Thanksgiving

The Turkey Trot

It has been a family tradition in downtown Detroit for the past thirty-five years. Much more than a variety of races (10K / 5K / 1 Mile), thousands of participants dress in costumes. Often declared “The Parade before The Parade”, participants frolic by the largest spectator crowd in Michigan. What an awesome way to start Thanksgiving Day!

The Parade Company

Pancake Breakfast

The Parade Company hosts an annual pancake breakfast at its headquarters in Detroit. The morning event draws over 1,000 guests, local politicians, and business executives to celebrate the countdown to America’s Thanksgiving Parade

Parade Preview Party

The annual parade preview party is held one month before the parade begins. At this event, they announce the Grand Marshall, The Parade Queen and showcase floats that are new to the parade.

Hob Nobble Gobble

The Hob Nobble Gobble is a whimsical annual event that takes place on the 50 yard line at Ford Field. It is a mini carnival with rides, games and prizes. You can join in with the marching band, dancing elves and even Santa Claus. The highly attended event comes complete with food, balloon making and special performances.

Ford Fireworks Rooftop Party

This Rooftop Party on top of the Center Parking Garage next to the Renaissance Center is an opportunity for guests to see the Ford Fireworks up close and personal!

Parade Facts:

The Michigan Thanksgiving Parade, now known as America’s Thanksgiving Parade, was founded in 1924. The Parade has grown to include more than 75 parade units, including floats, balloons and marching bands in procession.

The Michigan Thanksgiving Parade Foundation is an independent, not-for-profit, tax-exempt organization. Funding is derived from corporate sponsorships, foundations and individual donations. The Foundation receives no local, state or federal appropriations. The Parade Company is the marketing and operating division of The Michigan Thanksgiving Parade Foundation.

The Parade Company