Celebrate 200 Years of Dexter at the Bicentennial Parade and Carnival

In case you haven’t yet heard, Dexter is celebrating a monumental milestone this year—its 200th anniversary. As part of the festivities, the city is excited to announce the Dexter Bicentennial Parade and Carnival.

Participate in the Bicentennial Parade

On Saturday, June 22, 2024, Dexter will host its Bicentennial Parade at 10:00 am. Those interested in being part of this historic parade can apply by visiting the Dexter Bicentennial website and downloading the Parade Participant Application Form. The form is available as a PDF and can be submitted either by dropping it off or mailing it to City Hall at 3515 Broad Street, Dexter, MI 48130. Find more details and the application link here: https://dexterbicentennial.com/event-participation/

Additionally, the parade organizers are seeking community members who can lend a truck or trailer for the marching groups. For more information or to offer assistance, please contact Josh Tanghe, Assistant to the City Manager, at jtanghe@dextermi.gov or call 734-580-2229.

Experience the Fun at the Dexter Bicentennial Carnival

The excitement continues with the Dexter Bicentennial Carnival, taking place from Thursday, June 20th to Saturday, June 22nd. Located on Central Street (between Main and 5th) and Broad Street (between Forest and Grand), the carnival will operate from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Thursday, and from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Friday and Saturday. Visitors can enjoy an array of rides, attractions, and delicious carnival treats while celebrating Dexter’s 200th birthday.

cartoon of colonial man speaking to teen texting on their phone — “Back in my day, we all met in the village square each week to hear someone read from a sheet of parchment.” Image created by DALL-E.

Convenient Parking and Shuttles

We’re expecting a crowd. So, with several streets hosting carnival festivities, parking will be available at Bates School (2704 Baker Road) and Creekside Intermediate School (2615 Baker Road). A shuttle bus service will also run from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Thursday, and from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm on Friday and Saturday to help attendees travel around downtown Dexter. Details about bus stops and routes will be distributed prior to the event. Stay tuned.

Explore More Dexter Bicentennial Events

Beyond the parade and carnival, there are numerous other events scheduled throughout the year as part of the Bicentennial Celebration. To discover more about these events and to keep up with new additions, visit the Dexter Bicentennial calendar at https://dexterbicentennial.com/calendar/

Join us in celebrating 200 years of community, history, and progress at the Dexter Bicentennial Celebration. Whether you participate in the parade, enjoy the carnival, or attend other events, it’s a perfect opportunity to honor Dexter’s rich heritage and vibrant future.