Dexter Prepares for Annual Memorial Day Parade After Tough Times

DEXTER, Mich. — The Dexter community gears up for its cherished Memorial Day Parade, a tradition that honors the sacrifices of military personnel, on May 30, 2025. This annual event, now in its 80th year, continues to unite residents in a tribute that has evolved from its inception as Decoration Day in 1868.

Originally established to commemorate Union soldiers who fell during the Civil War, Memorial Day has since expanded to honor all service members who have lost their lives defending the nation. In Dexter, local pride runs deep, with a war memorial in Memorial Park that has stood since shortly after the Civil War, reflecting the town’s long-standing commitment to remembrance.

Organized by the Dexter Rotary Club since 2013, the parade has seen consistent leadership from Steve Feinman, who coordinates the event each year, alongside Chris Gordon, who oversees the solemn ceremony at Memorial Park. A dedicated team of 16 to 18 marshals, primarily composed of Rotarians and community volunteers, manages the parade route down Main Street.

This year, the parade will feature custom-designed posters by Florida artist Chris Monaghan, whose grandfather was a former police officer in Dexter. The 2025 poster is set to make its debut in local store windows, marking another year of creative community involvement.

Last year, the parade garnered over 1,100 participants, not including key groups such as the Dexter High School Marching Band, the Washtenaw County Sheriff Honor Guard, and the Dexter Area Fire Department. The event is known for its diverse array of participants, which includes local sports teams, organizations, businesses, and community groups, as well as vintage vehicles and the ever-popular candy distribution for children along the parade route.

As plans finalize for the 2025 parade, organizers are busy securing city permits and arranging essential components, including the honor guard and ceremony speaker. The Dexter Rotary Club invites community groups of all backgrounds to join the parade, ensuring an inclusive celebration of heritage and remembrance.

For anyone interested in participating, registration details will be available on the Dexter Rotary Club’s website, emphasizing that this event is about cherishing a deep-rooted legacy and bringing the town together in remembrance.