Have you ever wanted to see floats even when it’s not a holiday? Your in luck. The Parade Company offers tours all year round!
Come on down to the Parade Company and see exactly how floats are made. You will be so close you can touch them! From the first basic sketches from the artists, to how they form bases of the floats and decide how big to make it. You will learn it all! Did you know most of the floats are made from using layers of metal, styrofoam and wood? The tour guide will guide you through it all. They are extremely knowledgeable and love to answer your questions.
See current floats and some from past years. As well as retired pieces from the parade. Be sure to look everywhere as many are hanging from the rafters! Learn about the history of the parade and be sure to check out the world largest collection of paper mâché heads. How they have learned from the experts on how to make them is amazing. Stick around until the end, and you might even be able to see the sleigh that the big jolly man himself rides on!
Be sure to wear clothing that is suitable for the temperature outside. Although it is indoors there is no heat or ac. Tours last around a hour- hour and a half. Be sure to schedule your tour by calling: 313-923-7400 ext. 225 or reserve your time here. Tours are by reservation only.The Parade Company is open for scheduled tours December-August, Monday thru Thursday: 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. September-November, Monday thru Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Admission: Adults $12, kids $8, 2 and under are FREE.
The Parade Company is located at 9500 Mt. Elliott, Studio A Detroit, MI 48211
