The Homecoming parade is the kickoff of the big game leading into the homecoming weekend. As students begin to gather at Maire Elementary School, the excitement begins. Everyone gathers around the floats, which showcase the hours of hard work and dedication put in by the students.
Not only is the parade exciting for the students of South, but also for members of the community. Lina Baer ’24 is a second generation at South and said her dad still gets just as excited for the annual parade as he did when he attended South.“Looking around and seeing a community full of smiling people reminds you of the powerful community we have in Grosse Pointe,” Baer said. “South’s roots go back generations, with many of South’s students being second or third generation Blue Devils.”
Although the parade tradition stays the same throughout the years, it can feel slightly different as a senior.“It’s kind of a bittersweet moment because it’s your last Homecoming parade, but it’s a good feeling that you’re the oldest and people look up to you now,” Baer said.
Helen Haindl ’27 played a significant role in the planning and execution of the freshmen float. Being her first Homecoming, there were many things she said she never realized about all the work that goes into the float and other homecoming activities.“When I was little, I never thought about how much time and effort the students took into these floats,” Haindl said. “It feels good to finally be able to show off all of your hard work.”
Young or old, the Homecoming parade is something everyone can enjoy.“I just love how involved everyone gets and even though the grades are kind of going against each other to win the spirit jug,” Baer said. “We are all really there to have a good time and show the community all the great things we’ve done.”
