It was below freezing in the Village the morning of Nov. 24. Nevertheless, a crowd of Grosse Pointe residents ranging from toddlers to the elderly lined Kercheval Avenue, or “Christmas Street,” festively renamed for the holidays. Snuggled into their strollers and foldable chairs, wrapped in layers of blankets, they were gathered to mark the start of the holiday season with the 48th annual Santa Claus Parade.
Organized by the Grosse Pointe Chamber of Commerce, the parade is the largest and most well-known in the town. Many local small businesses, charities, schools, the police, and fire departments participate, putting on performances and handing out candy and coupons to spectators. It’s tradition for Anna Burlaka ’26 to attend with her family and friends.
“It’s a fun community event,” Burlaka said. “I like the musical element.”
Featured were the Grosse Pointe South and North Marching Bands, playing the tune “Feliz Navidad.” The combined color guard tailed them in Christmas-themed uniforms. Burlaka said she also enjoyed watching the dogs trot down Kercheval on behalf of the Golden Retriever Rescue of Michigan.
“They were cute and really fluffy,” Burlaka said.
Grosse Pointe resident Kurt Phillips said he also regularly attends the parade to support the Fitzgerald band. His two daughters, graduates of South, were members. This year, he cheered on his grandson, a drummer.
“It’s a good event for the community and for the kids,” Phillips said.
Nebraska resident David Alexander attended the parade while on a visit to family in Grosse Pointe. His grandson, a cub scout, also participated in the parade.
“We come exclusively to watch the grandsons,” Alexander said.
The weather may have been frigid, but the Christmas cheer warmed everybody’s hearts. As the parade drew to a close, only laughter could be heard, a sign of spirits lifted to new heights.
“It made my day,” Burlaka said.
