If your kids are anything like mine, they are obsessed with parades. Something about the seemingly endless display of floats, fire trucks, marching bands, and flying candy really gets them excited. There are several parades to look forward to this summer in and around the Lansing area. If you’re looking to check out a parade this summer, be sure to put some of these on your calendar.
A few recommendations before heading out to a parade
- Always try to leave early if you can. That way you have time to find a good parking spot and get set up before the parade starts.
- I recommend using a wagon or stroller for transporting littles. It also doubles as the perfect place for your kids to sit and view the parade.
- Don’t forget bags for candy and ear protection! We’ve learned our lesson with that last one. Nothing like the combination of a crying kid and a dozen sirens going off at the same time.
Lansing Area Summer Parades
June Parades
Lansing Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 15, parade starts at 11 a.m.
J.W. Sexton High School, 102 S. McPherson Ave.
The mission of the Lansing Juneteenth Committee is to commemorate the ending of slavery in the United States. They celebrate Juneteenth through community education and promoting positive cultural interactions.
Williamston Red Cedar Jubilee
Saturday, June 22, parade starts at 11:30 a.m.
Downtown Williamston, E. Grand River Ave.
The Red Cedar Jubilee is Williamston’s longest-running community celebration. The Red Cedar Jubilee features parades as well as craft shows, an enduro derby, lawn mower races, a duck drop, and a food and beverage tent with live music.
Yankee Doodle Day
Saturday, June 22, parade starts at 11 a.m.
Jaycee Park, 525 E. River Street, Grand Ledge
This year’s family-friendly community event will include various activities throughout the day, including the parade, music, arts and crafts show and fireworks.
July Parades
Lansing Independence Day Parade
Thursday, July 4, parade starts at 11 a.m.
Downtown parade at the Capital Loop
Mason Independence Day Parade
Thursday, July 4, parade starts at 4:30 p.m.
Mason High School, 1001 S Barnes St., Mason
Eaton Rapids 4th of July Celebration
Thursday, July 4, parade starts at 11 a.m.
200 South Main St, Eaton Rapids
A day filled with activities including a craft/vendor show, Civil War Living History Camp, Kid’s Zone, and fireworks!
August Parades
St. Johns Mint Festival
Saturday, August 10, parade starts at 10 a.m.
Clinton Avenue by Oakview Elementary School, St. Johns
Celebrate mint farming heritage with a weekend of fun for the whole family.
Note: This parade is super fun and has tons of emergency vehicles and tractors from all around the area but it can get loud. Ear protection is super important for this one.
Dewitt Ox Roast
Saturday, August 17, parade starts at 10 a.m.
Downtown Dewitt
It’s the 78th Annual DeWitt Ox Roast, a celebration of community, history, and spirit. The DeWitt Ox Roast is a beloved tradition that brings together people of all ages for a weekend of fun and festivities.
Note: This is a really popular parade so get there early to secure a good spot.
