The City of Detroit has recently celebrated a significant triumph as its iconic America's Thanksgiving Parade was voted the Best Holiday Parade in the United States. The 2024 USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards recognized the parade, a tradition that Detroit has proudly hosted since 1924. This year's win adds to the city's festive accolades, previously topping the list in 2018, 2019, and 2022.
Tony Michaels, President & CEO of The Parade Company, expressed his delight to local news outlets stating, "We are elated to once again have generations of Detroiters and people across the country vote America’s Thanksgiving Parade presented by Gardner White as the Best Holiday Parade in America." According to a WXYZ report, Michaels noted that the honor reflected the city's ongoing progress and thanked the partners who collaborate each year to make the event possible.
The parade features vivid, large floats, marching bands, and iconic helium balloons that attract both local and national audiences. Held every Thanksgiving morning along historic Woodward Avenue, the event highlights Detroit's community spirit and creative talent.
In his reaction to news of the victory, Michaels is quoted to have said, "We are incredibly grateful for our remarkable partners who every year help us create this magical tradition in Detroit," according to a statement obtained by WXYZ.
Aside from the parade, USA TODAY readers also recognized other Metro Detroit attractions in the awards. Notably, Meadow Brook Hall and the Ford House were honored in the category of Best Holiday Home Tour, while the Wild Lights event at the Detroit Zoo was celebrated for its dazzling LED bulb displays. More information on the awards and other notable mentions is available in the thorough coverage provided by the Detroit Free Press.
