East Michigan News

America’s Thanksgiving Parade® presented by Gardner White is preparing for its 98th year in Detroit. The parade, a longstanding tradition for Michigan families, also draws millions of television viewers nationwide every Thanksgiving morning.

Central Michigan University (CMU) will participate in the parade for the fourth consecutive year. CMU invites students, faculty, staff, and alumni to apply as marchers. Participants will don maroon and gold attire and walk alongside CMU’s float.

"If you're passionate about our university and ready to show your maroon and gold pride, join us this Thanksgiving and help us celebrate our CMU spirit in style," said Hannah Martin, CMU’s assistant director of Alumni Engagement.

Martin noted that marchers must be at least 16 years old and able to walk the three-mile parade route. Marchers may bring a friend or family member by registering them on their application form. Both participants must commit to completing the entire parade.

Applications will be reviewed by a committee comprising students, faculty, staff representatives, and the Alumni Board. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, October 9.

For those preferring to watch from the grandstand, CMU Alumni Relations offers registration for seating with an accompanying Thanksgiving breakfast. Registration includes exclusive grandstand seating on Woodward Avenue with alumni and friends, an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet, and access to private restrooms at the CMU Detroit Office.

CMU has designed a new float for this year's parade featuring three sections: campus life enjoyment, athletic competition, and diverse learning experiences. Amy White, CMU Director of Visual Media who collaborated on the design said it reflects all aspects of CMU’s “We Do” brand. “We wanted to showcase the many opportunities for hands-on experience that CMU students have,” White said. “From student organizations and academic programs to athletics, America will see how CMU is focused on real-world results for students.”

America’s Thanksgiving Parade® is recognized as the second-largest in the nation and has been named Best Holiday Parade by USA Today three times in the past six years.

Tony Michaels, a CMU alumnus and president/CEO of The Parade Company expressed his pride in seeing his alma mater featured nationally again. "Taking part in the parade brings national attention to CMU – highlighting students, faculty, staff, alumni and CMU's dedication to Detroit and Michigan," Michaels said. "We are thrilled to showcase CMU to prospective students and their families nationwide."