DETOIT ~ Detroit businessman and philanthropist Dan Gilbert will serve as grand marshal of this year’s America’s Thanksgiving Parade, joining the celebration as the Detroit tradition marks its 100th anniversary.
The Parade Company announced Gilbert’s selection Monday, citing his longstanding commitment to Detroit through business, philanthropy, and community development. President and CEO Tony Michaels said Gilbert’s contributions to Detroit and the region made him a fitting choice for the parade’s centennial celebration.
A fourth-generation Detroiter, Gilbert is founder and chairman of Rocket Companies and chairman of the Rock Family of Companies. Through his real estate firm Bedrock, he has helped lead major redevelopment projects in downtown Detroit, including Hudson’s Detroit and the restoration of Book Tower. His philanthropic efforts have included major investments in housing, neighborhood revitalization, education, and medical research across the city.
This year’s parade theme, “This is 100,” celebrates a century of what has become one of Detroit’s most enduring traditions. Produced by The Parade Company, America’s Thanksgiving Parade is among the nation’s oldest Thanksgiving Day parades and has been recognized multiple times by USA TODAY readers as America’s top holiday parade.
The 100th America’s Thanksgiving Parade presented by Gardner White will take place Nov. 26 along Woodward Avenue in downtown Detroit. The event is free to attend and will be broadcast live on WDIV Local 4, with additional Thanksgiving Day coverage on 760 WJR.
