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Detroit's Thanksgiving Parade and Turkey Trot return for 2020, but this year there's a twist

The Parade Company announced America's Thanksgiving Parade in Detroit and the Turkey Trot will go on amid the pandemic, but in 2020 the venerable events that usually draw thousands downtown will be a virtual race and a televised-only parade.

"The Parade Company developed a creative and thoughtful approach to continue the 94-year tradition during these unprecedented times," organizers said in press release, adding, "This year's format is designed to capture the imaginations of millions watching from home and will not have spectators in the compressed footprint." The parade will air only on local TV station WDIV-Local 4.


This year's parade is themed: We Are One Together and it will honor frontline workers and heroes of the COVID-19 crisis.

"We have an extraordinary passion in bringing America's Thanksgiving Parade presented by Gardner-White to our community and believe this is an opportunity to show the country how our remarkable city and people have come together to make this beloved tradition happen," said Tony Michaels, President and CEO of The Parade Company. "Our team has reviewed every aspect with the city of Detroit and the Detroit Police Department to ensure a safe environment. This is truly Detroit's greatest tradition."

The Parade Company also announced details for its signature events, including:

• The 38th Annual Strategic Staffing Solutions Turkey Trot will take place as a virtual race this year and will not take place downtown. Registration is now open at theparade.org/turkeytrot]theparade.org/turkeytrot – runners have the option of the 10K and 5K S3 Turkey Trot and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Mashed Potato Mile. The Parade Company's goal is to make this the largest virtual race in the state. The event benefits the Michigan Thanksgiving Parade Foundation.

• Hob Nobble Gobble presented by Ford Motor Company is postponed for 2020 and will return to Ford Field on November 19, 2021. This is The Parade Company's largest fundraiser of the year.

America's Thanksgiving Parade presented by Gardner-White is recognized as the Best Holiday Parade by USA Today, two years running, 2018 and 2019. This is Gardner-White's inaugural year as presenting sponsor.

Entercom's WOMC 104.3 also broadcast special parade shows. For information, visit theparade.org.