Detroit, November 28, 2025
Detroit celebrated the 99th America’s Thanksgiving Parade, marking the start of the holiday season with vibrant floats, celebrity appearances, and the iconic arrival of Santa Claus. The parade attractions included new floats and a captivating performance, while community engagement enhanced the festivities. With careful transportation arrangements and activities for families, Detroit showcased its tradition and readiness for future celebrations.
Detroit Welcomes the 99th America’s Thanksgiving Parade with Santa
Join the Holiday Festivities in Detroit
Detroit, Michigan – On November 27, 2025, the city proudly hosted the 99th annual America’s Thanksgiving Parade, a time-honored tradition that signifies the start of the holiday season. This cherished event brought together vibrant floats, energetic marching bands, and whimsical giant balloons, culminating in the much-anticipated arrival of Santa Claus.
Beginning at 8:50 a.m. at Woodward Avenue and Kirby, the parade made its way to Congress Street, just south of Campus Martius Park. This year’s theme, “Walking on Sunshine,” resonated throughout the festivities, highlighted by a captivating performance of “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” from The Lion King. Among the attractions, parade-goers marveled at eight new floats, including a remarkable Big Head Corps figure honoring the legendary Detroit Tigers player, Kirk Gibson.
Celebrity Appearances Enrich the Experience
The parade attracted a star-studded lineup, including local favorites such as award-winning rapper Big Sean, HGTV’s Nicole Curtis, and actor Christopher McDonald. Emitting enthusiasm and joy, the presence of Emmy winner Sam Richardson and former Detroit Lions great Dexter Bussey added a layer of excitement to this festive occasion.
The Grand Arrival of Santa Claus
As the parade drew closer to its grand finale, Santa Claus made an unforgettable grand entrance on his sleigh float, surrounded by cheerful elves. The moment culminated at the intersection of Congress and Woodward, where Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan greeted Santa and presented him with the key to the city, symbolizing the official start of the holiday season in Detroit.
A Rich Tradition That Continues to Thrive
America’s Thanksgiving Parade first commenced in 1924, founded by the J.L. Hudson Company, making it one of the oldest Thanksgiving parades in the United States. Throughout the decades, this event has evolved into a significant holiday staple, continuously attracting generations of families to downtown Detroit.
Engaging the Community
Beyond the main parade, the Detroit Historical Museum proved to be a hub of community involvement, offering a special viewing event for families. This unique experience included bleacher seating along the parade route, continental breakfast, and exclusive access to museum exhibits, enhancing neighborhood participation in this festive celebration.
Transportation and Festivities Galore
In anticipation of large crowds, the City of Detroit arranged for street closures and bus reroutes, ensuring safety and accessibility for all attendees. The Detroit People Mover operated from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., providing free transportation to attendees. The day’s festivities also featured the Strategic Staffing Solutions Turkey Trot, a popular Thanksgiving Day race that coincided with the parade celebrations.
What’s Next for America’s Thanksgiving Parade
With the resounding success of the 99th America’s Thanksgiving Parade, Detroit stands ready to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026. The city’s dedication to community engagement and festive experiences guarantees that this beloved event will remain a cornerstone of the holiday season for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is America’s Thanksgiving Parade?
America’s Thanksgiving Parade is an annual event held in Detroit, Michigan, featuring floats, marching bands, giant balloons, and celebrity appearances, culminating in the arrival of Santa Claus.
When did America’s Thanksgiving Parade begin?
The parade began in 1924, making it one of the oldest Thanksgiving parades in the United States.
Who were some of the celebrities featured in the 2025 parade?
Notable celebrities included Big Sean, Nicole Curtis, Christopher McDonald, Sam Richardson, and Dexter Bussey.
What is the significance of Santa receiving the key to the city?
The presentation of the key to Santa symbolizes the official start of the holiday season in Detroit, a tradition that has been part of the parade for decades.
How can I participate in future America’s Thanksgiving Parades?
Interested individuals can participate by volunteering with The Parade Company, attending the parade, or engaging in community events associated with the parade. For more information, visit The Parade Company’s official website.
Key Features of America’s Thanksgiving Parade 2025
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Parade Theme | “Walking on Sunshine” |
| Parade Route | Woodward Avenue from Kirby to Congress Street |
| Notable Celebrities | Big Sean, Nicole Curtis, Christopher McDonald, Sam Richardson, Dexter Bussey |
| Special Floats | Eight new floats, including a Big Head Corps figure honoring Kirk Gibson |
| Santa’s Arrival | Santa received the key to the city from Mayor Mike Duggan |
| Transportation | Detroit People Mover operated from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.; street closures and bus reroutes implemented |
| Community Engagement | Detroit Historical Museum offered special viewing event with bleacher seating and access to exhibits |
Now Happening on X
- @CrimeInTheD (November 25, 2025, 1:08 PM) Detroit is addressing rising violence at illegal street parties and among teenagers through the police department’s mobile field force, curfews, and partnerships with community violence intervention groups, emphasizing both accountability and opportunity for safety. View on X
- @CityofDetroit (November 25, 2025, 12:24 PM) The city is tackling violence at illegal street parties and teen incidents with Detroit Police Department’s mobile field force, enforced curfews, and collaborations with CVI groups to promote public safety through accountability and community opportunities. View on X
- @CBSDetroit (November 26, 2025, 12:00 PM) Police are searching for a shooting suspect in Highland Park, while lake-effect snow is forecast for the Great Lakes region; these top stories highlight ongoing public safety and weather concerns in Metro Detroit. View on X
- @CBSDetroit (November 26, 2025, 4:00 PM) An emergency notification system used by police departments nationwide, including at least two in Metro Detroit, was targeted in a cyberattack, raising concerns about public safety and emergency management in the region. View on X
- @detroitnews (November 25, 2025, 7:00 AM) Warren and Sterling Heights have agreed to share emergency public services, enhancing regional cooperation for better public safety and response capabilities in Metro Detroit suburbs. View on X
- @CBSDetroit (November 27, 2025, 1:00 PM) Today’s top headlines include updates on local news impacting public safety and community events across Detroit. View on X
- @DetRewardsTV (November 24, 2025, 12:06 PM) Weekly top three cases offer rewards up to $5,000 for tips on a homicide near Humboldt & W. Forest, a burglary in the 100 block of Gratiot, and a non-fatal shooting in the 17100 block of Harlow, aiding ongoing police investigations in Detroit. View on X
- @detroitnews (November 22, 2025, 6:00 AM) A hiring mistake by Detroit police has created potential legal issues and other challenges for the department, affecting public safety operations. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Metro Detroit Hosts Free Family Meet-and-Greet Events Featuring The Smurfs
Angelique Power Named Michiganian of the Year for Education Advocacy
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
