Need to Know: Ferndale Memorial Day Parade

The city of Ferndale rolled out its first Memorial Day Parade in 1919. Now in 2012, it's a longstanding tradition that always draws crowds to downtown Ferndale to remember those who served.

When: The parade begins at 10 a.m. Monday.

Where: The parade lines up at 9:45 a.m. at Livernois and Maplehurst. It rolls out at 10 a.m., heading east on Maplehurst to Woodward, south to Nine Mile, west to Livernois and south to Veteran’s Memorial Mall where a service will be held honoring veterans.

What: The parade will feature ’s Golden Eagles Marching Band, representatives from all the U.S. Armed Services and numerous local and regional groups. The will also be part of the parade, with dozens of marchers solemnly carrying placards of each Michigan soldier who has died in the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts since 2001. Another unit will feature area youth celebrating the national holiday by decorating their bikes in red, white and blue. There will be a drawing for prizes for children who
dress up their bicycles.

Parking: Parking meters do not need to be paid on Monday.

Viewing: During the parade, West Nine Mile Road becomes an ideal location to park a lawn chair and enjoy the festivities. The reviewing stand will be located at , at the corner of Planavon and West Nine Mile.

More info: Groups wishing to participate in the parade paid a $25 entry fee to help defray parade costs. The event is also supported by local businesses including: Blumz by JR Design, Carters Corner Garden Supply, Downtown Ferndale Bike Shop, Ferndale Community Foundation, Lenny’s Copy Center, Patrick Siens of CopperWorks and Western Market.

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