Santa Claus Parade to Feature New Float, Michigan Teacher of the Year

The Grosse Pointe Santa Parade will step-off at 10 a.m. Friday with many of the traditional Scout groups, sports teams and the jolly elf himself, but will also feature a few new features this year.

This year the parade, which has a winter wonderland theme, is being produced by the Grosse Pointe Chamber of Commerce, which is taking over from the Village Merchants Association. 

"The parade will be somewhat similar to last year," said Nora Dennehy Glenn, parade director, of the event which will include favorites including the Redford Unicycle Club and Golden Retriever Rescue of Michigan.

In addition to the new organizers, the parade will feature a new float sponsored by Art Van which will debut at the parade and Gary Abud - Michigan's teacher of the year - will also be in the parade. 

Glenn added that there will be between 60 -70 entries in the parade including five marching bands and a number of community groups in the 38th edition of the parade.

At the end of 1.1 mile-parade in front of Cold Stone Creamery, Santa Claus will receive the key to the hearts of children in the Grosse Pointes and Harper Woods.

Parade information:

• Volunteers are needed from 8 a.m. to noon on the day of the parade to help carry banners and work as marshals. For more information, or to volunteer, call (313) 881-4722.
• Before the parade, the Lions Club will again host the Jingle Bell Walk/Run. For more information, and to register, visit the Lions Club website.
  
• After the parade, the Grosse Pointe Public Central Library will host face painting, used book sale and door prizes for the first 100 people.
• Children can visit with Santa from noon - 4 p.m. Friday at the Village Grille.