America’s Thanksgiving Parade is still one of the nation’s largest. For 2011, its theme is So Much to Believe In. As always, the parade will feature papier-mâché heads, The Distinguished Clown Corps, floats, balloons and marching bands.
Information:
- When: The 85th annual America's Thanksgiving Parade begins at 9:20 a.m. on November 24th, Thanksgiving Day.
- Where: The parade route runs along Woodward Avenue from Mack Avenue to Congress at Campus Martius. Grandstand seats are available from between $30 to $50 (depending on location and whether breakfast is included). The parade will be broadcast on WDIV-TV and WJR 760 AM in Detroit and syndicated nationally.
- Who: The host(s) for 2011 has not yet been announced.
- How: The 85th annual America’s Thanksgiving Parade is made possible through the efforts of over 4500 volunteers.
Satellite Events:
- Hob Nobble Gobble is an annual black-tie fundraiser. This year it will be held at Ford Field on Saturday, November 18th from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. There will be a carnival midway, entertainment, food, and prizes. Special guests include Cari Cucksey (Cash & Cari), Erin Cummings (Detroit 1-8-7), and Doug E. Fresh. Tickets start at $200 child / $350 adult.
- The 29th Annual Turkey Trot takes place in the early hours of Thanksgiving Day and is Michigan’s largest 10K run. In addition to the 10K and 5K runs, there is a costume contest, mashed potato mile, and 5K Walk. Many of the 10,000 participants who run the challenging city course through downtown Detroit do so in costume. In the past, costumes have ranged from super heroes to Christmas characters.
- A Day in Paradeland allows kids and adults alike to see the papier-mâché heads and floats that participated in the 2011 America’s Thanksgiving Parade. The event is held on the Saturday following Thanksgiving Day, November 26th. There will be arts & crafts, entertainment by AM 910 Radio Disney, treats and Santa! Admission is $6.
Lodging:
Downtown Detroit has a wide variety of lodging available, including bed & breakfasts, resorts and casino hotels. If you plan to attend America's Thanksgiving Parade, you can search for downtown-Detroit lodging by price, rating or amenities.More Information:
- History of Detroit Parade
- History and Information About Detroit's Papier-Mache Heads
- The Parade Company's Website
