America's Thanksgiving Parade: From Vanilla Ice To Santa Claus (Video)

By Edward Cardenas

DETROIT (CBS Detroit) - An estimated one million people will line Woodward Ave. Thursday for the 88th America's Thanksgiving Parade, and some of the event participants and attendees recently shared their favorite memories during the Hob Nobble Gobble.

The Parade Company President and CEO Tony Michaels said the children lining Woodward with their families make the event special.

"The greatest part is the kids," said Michaels. "The smiles along Woodward. That's what it is all about and that's what it means. It's bring the kids out, and have them enjoy that family moment."

For Sen. Debbie Stabenow, the parade has been an annual tradition since her youth growing up in Clare.

"We always came down to the Thanksgiving Day parade," said Stabenow. "To see the Thanksgiving parade going strong, and to have a chance to be here and to help support it, is really special."

Rapper Vanilla Ice, who performed at the Hob Nobble Gobble, will be one of the special celebrity guests in the parade. He's traveling from A1A to "Detroit Avenue."

"It's an honor to come out and be part of the parade and festivities," he said.

The star of the show, Santa Claus, stated Detroit is on his nice list.

"I love Detroit," he said. "I am so proud of Detroit for all the accomplishments they've made this year."