Guide to Michigan Memorial Day Parades
Krystal Clark
| 3 min read
Memorial Day is more than barbecue, fireworks and parties. It’s an acknowledgement of all the fallen soldiers who’ve served in the United States Armed Forces. The last Monday in May is part of an extended weekend full of activities for people of all ages. Each year, local organizers present lavish parades celebrating the community and military personnel.
Here’s our guide to finding a Memorial Day parade near you:
Dearborn 2019 Memorial Day Parade – Dearborn, MI: As one of the oldest Memorial Day parades in the country, this annual event has been a Dearborn staple for the past 95 years. The march will begin on Michigan Ave and feature hundreds of veterans and more than 60 groups. The official kickoff is at 10 a.m.
Royal Oak Memorial Day Parade – Royal Oak, MI: Each year, Royal Oak’s Veteran Affairs Committee pays tribute to soldiers—past and present—during their annual parade. Starting at 9 a.m. on Lincoln and Main St., the procession will continue toward the downtown area.
Kalamazoo County Memorial Day Parade – Kalamazoo, MI– The Kalamazoo Marine Corps League presents this parade, which will run from downtown Kalamazoo to Riverside Cemetery. The action starts at 10 a.m. and will feature a formal ceremony and Memorial Day address.
2019 Memorial Day Parade – Ann Arbor, MI: Glacier Highlands Park serves as the backdrop to this parade, which specifically honors Michigan servicemen and women. The day will consist of a brief remembrance ceremony, patriotic music, food and refreshments. Streets will be blocked by 9:15 a.m. and the parade is scheduled to start at 10 a.m.
Memorial Day Parade/Service – Petoskey, MI: Activities begin at 8:30 a.m. with a wreath-laying ceremony, followed by a wreath drop at 9:15 a.m. and the parade at 10 a.m. The event is open to everyone, especially veterans, who are encouraged to wear some form of military designation.
Memorial Day Celebration – Portland, MI: This parade starts at the Veteran’s Memorial Bridge on Kent St. and ends at the Lehman Funeral Home for a wreath presentation. The procession will include ceremonial bell ringing, a color guard, high school band and rifle squad salute. Participants and visitors can also expect a pot luck luncheon to follow.
Saline Memorial Day Parade – Saline, MI: Head over to Harris St. and Michigan Ave to watch Saline’s annual parade unfold. Veterans from all over Washtenaw County will participate in this celebration with music by Saline Middle School and Saline High School’s marching bands. Festivities begin at 10 a.m.
Greater Muskegon Memorial Day Parade – Muskegon, MI: This parade starts at 9 a.m. on Morris St. and ends at 10 a.m. at Hackley Park. The free event will conclude with a holiday program featuring the Mona Shores Marching Band and a veteran tribute led by a special guest speaker.
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Photo credit: mediaphotos
