One of Sterling Heights’ most cherished and patriotic traditions returns Monday, May 26, as the city presents its 46th Annual Memorial Day Parade. This year’s theme, “We Are One: Honoring Our Past, Uniting Our Future,” celebrates both remembrance and community spirit.
The day begins with a solemn Memorial Day Ceremony at 9 a.m. in the courtyard between City Hall (40555 Utica Road) and the Police Department. The ceremony will feature inspiring remarks from this year’s Grand Marshal, 104-year-old WWII veteran and Sterling Heights resident Jack Jones. Mayor Michael C. Taylor and Arts Commission Chairperson Jeanne Schabath-Lewis will also speak. The Motor City Blend Chorus will provide a moving musical backdrop to the morning's commemorative program.
A special highlight this year includes a thrilling flyover by historic Tuskegee Airmen WWII aircraft at approximately 9:30 a.m., followed by a stirring performance by the 1st Michigan Colonial Fife & Drum Corps.
The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. from Dodge Park, continuing through the roundabout and heading south along Dodge Park Road, concluding at Gene L. Klida Utica Academy for International Studies near Metro Parkway. Parade spectators can find parking along the route and in front of the Police Department and Richard J. Notte Civic Center.
More than 60 parade entries—including floats, veterans, community groups, local media personalities and high school marching bands—will bring energy and pageantry to the route. The always-popular Moslem Shriners will return with their lively crew of clowns, cowboys, musicians, motorcyclists and more.
“The Sterling Heights Memorial Day Ceremony and Parade is one of our city’s signature events and has earned a reputation as one of the most meaningful and well-attended in the region,” said Sterling Heights Mayor Michael Taylor. “Memorial Day isn’t just a long weekend—it’s a time to honor the sacrifice and courage of the men and women who served our nation. Our 46th annual event is not only a celebration of community, but a powerful reminder of their bravery and legacy.”
For more information on the Memorial Day Parade or Ceremony, please contact the Sterling Heights Community Relations Department at 586-446-2470.