Mrs. Claus bought Saint Nick some new technology for Christmas last year. He must be sporting GPS, since this year’s Art Van Santa Parade presented by the Grand Rapids Jaycees will be taking a different route.
Held on the Saturday prior to Thanksgiving in downtown Grand Rapids, the Grand Rapids Jaycees Santa Parade is a West Michigan tradition of more than 100 years. The parade serves as the kickoff to the holiday season. This year’s parade will begin at the corner of Michigan St. NW and Ottawa Ave., and continue south on Ottawa, concluding at the intersection of Fulton St., near the Van Andel Arena. Free grandstand seating will be offered at Calder Plaza, which will accommodate up to 200 people on a first-come, first-served basis. The annual parade begins at 9 a.m. and concludes at 10:30 a.m. New post-parade family festivities include photos with Santa at the new Santaland in Calder Plaza until noon.
“We are thrilled to give Grand Rapids a dynamic holiday parade, and this year’s parade will be nothing short of spectacular,” said Mindi Johnson, Jaycees parade chair. “This very open, wider route allows for more grandstand seating, larger balloons and floats that are all designed to enhance the overall family experience."
The parade will feature nearly 100 entries, from baton twirlers to marching bands as well as self-propelled floats.
This parade is often recognized as a top event among the Michigan Jaycees and the United States Junior Chamber, receiving multiple awards annually. So, don’t miss this long-standing holiday tradition. Bring the family, friends, pets or just yourself down to Center City and be a do-gooder just like the Grand Rapids Jaycees.
To help put the good back in do-gooder:
• Be a part of the parade on Saturday, Nov. 19. Find a viewing spot early.
• Visit the Art Van Santa Parade presented by the Grand Rapids Jaycees
website• Find you who the fellow do-gooders are! Visit the
sponsor list
Source: Mindi Johnson, Grand Rapids Jaycees; Adam Russo, SeyferthPR
Writer: Jennifer Wilson, Do Good Editor
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