The 99th America’s Thanksgiving Parade will roll down Woodward Avenue in Detroit on Thursday, Nov. 27 bringing floats, bands and Santa to the heart of downtown.
Families planning to attend can expect a lively three-mile route, road closures and big crowds. Here’s what parents should know before heading out — from ticket prices to stroller rules.
What parents should know before parade day
The 99th America’s Thanksgiving Parade is set for Thanksgiving morning in Detroit. According to The Parade Company, the route runs about three miles south along Woodward Avenue, from Kirby to Congress, and the parade takes roughly an hour and a half. The route passes through Midtown and Downtown Detroit, with popular viewing spots near landmarks like the Detroit Institute of Arts.
If you’re planning to bring your kids, here are a few practical tips.
- Sidewalk viewing is free. Grandstand tickets range from $60-$70 and include reserved seating near the main stage, and allow one child under age two to sit on the lap of a ticketed adult, per The Parade Company.
- Strollers, wagons, skateboards and scooters are not allowed in the grandstands, and security will check small bags.
- Portable restrooms are placed along the route.
- Road closures and parking may be challenging. Some streets along the parade corridor will close early in the morning. The Parade Company and the City of Detroit recommend purchasing parking in advance and checking city parking facilities.
- Families should plan to arrive early to secure a good spot and expect heavier crowds closer to downtown, according to The Parade Company.
The parade is best suited for ages 4 and up, but younger kids may enjoy watching the televised broadcast at home.
Leading up to the big day
In September 2025, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan and longtime WDIV anchor Devin Scillian were announced as grand marshals for the 2025 parade, according to WJR News. The Parade Company also opened volunteer registration for various roles behind the scenes, from float building and costume sewing to roles on event day. Volunteers must be at least 16; those age 16 or 17 must be accompanied by an adult.
In the weeks before Thanksgiving, performers and units are selected and rehearsals begin. For example, the 2025 All Star pompon team opened registration in September and will participate in an opening show before joining the parade. That’s according to Mid American Pompon.
On parade morning
The parade begins at 8:45 a.m. at Woodward and Kirby and marches south to Congress, where the “celebration zone” marks the end, per The Parade Company.
If you aren’t able to attend in person, you can watch the broadcast on WDIV Local 4.
Grandstands open earlier in the morning. Be sure to arrive on time, as the best views fill up quickly.
How the Thanksgiving Parade started
The tradition goes back to 1924, when Hudson’s department store in Detroit launched a parade featuring floats, papier-mâché heads and marching bands. Over time, The Parade Company, a nonprofit, has taken over planning, managing hundreds of volunteers to make the event happen.
Over the years, the parade has grown to include giant balloons, floats, marching bands, clowns and its signature “Big Head Corps” — oversized papier-mâché heads. The Distinguished Clown Corps is made of local business and community leaders in clown makeup, handing out fun treats along the route.
At the very end, Santa Claus arrives on the final float to welcome the holiday season.
Tips for a smooth morning
If you want your kids to have a good experience, aim to arrive early. Dress in layers (Michigan in late November can be cold). Pick a meeting spot ahead of time in case you lose sight of each other. Use restrooms early before routes get crowded.
Watching it live is unforgettable, but the broadcast option is solid for rest time or sensitive kids. For families who want to get involved, volunteering is worth considering — especially in roles behind the scenes where you can see how the magic comes together.
Plan it
- Address: Woodward Avenue and Kirby Street, Detroit (parade begins here and travels south to Congress Street)
- Hours: 8:45 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 27
- Cost: Free (grandstand seating extra)
- Parking/Transit: Paid lots downtown; arrive early for road closures
- ADA/Sensory Notes: Broadcast option available; portable restrooms along route; wheelchair-accessible viewing in select areas
All information and updates in this story are based on official 2025 details from The Parade Company.
