GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The 2023 Gentex Grand Rapids Santa Claus Parade happened downtown Saturday, and our FOX 17 team was there to meet thousands of people who came out.
"The Santa Parade is a 102-year tradition that has happened within the city where the community comes together and we celebrate the holidays," Evette Pittman, the special events manager for the city of Grand Rapids, said. "We're just so excited. We're thrilled that the day is finally here."
The parade started at 10 a.m. at the corner of Lyon Street and Monroe Avenue NW.
It traveled down Monroe to Monroe Center Street before taking Division N. to Fulton Street E. to Jefferson Street NE.
The parade ended around 11 a.m. in the parking lot of First United Methodist Church where organizers hosted a party for kids and families.
"The Santa Parade is that time where we can just put down all our differences. We can put down all our cares and our worries and we can just enjoy being a united community."
The Grand Rapids Children's Museum and Family Promise of West Michigan provided activities, and Santa himself was able to stop by!
This parade almost didn't happen this year, but thankfully, volunteers and donors were able to save it last month.
"Lots of work has gone into this with community members, volunteers and partners, as well as sponsors coming together with the city to make today [Saturday] happen," Pittman added.
READ MORE: 2023 Grand Rapids Santa Parade saved thanks to volunteers
