Calvin Johnson Jr., Detroit Bishop Edgar Vann to Serve as Grand Marshals of America’s Thanksgiving Parade in Detroit

NFL Hall of Famer Calvin Johnson Jr. and Detroit Bishop Edgar Vann will serve as Grand Marshals for the 95th annual America’s Thanksgiving Parade, presented by Gardner-White.

The news came from The Parade Company Thursday morning (Oct. 14). WDIV vice president and general manager Marla Drutz will also serve as honorary Grand Marshal.

Johnson is a Detroit favorite. He was with the Lions for nine seasons and is one of the most celebrated wide receivers in the NFL.

Vann of Second Ebenezer Church is another Detroit favorite. His father was a religious leader in Detroit for more than 50 years, and Vann has been serving the community since 1976.

“We are thrilled to welcome Calvin Johnson and Bishop Vann as this year’s Grand Marshals for America’s Thanksgiving Parade presented by Gardner-White,” Tony Michaels, president and CEO of The Parade Company, said in a statement. “Both are beloved figures in Detroit who have worked tirelessly to elevate our city and serve our community. It will be exciting to celebrate with them on Woodward Avenue on Thanksgiving morning.”

The parade will run along Woodward Avenue on Thanksgiving morning. This year's theme is “Love on Woodward.”