The Lexington Horse Parade, a holiday tradition for 14 years, took place on Dec. 14 with over 100 horses and riders participating. Organized by Mary Heiden, the parade featured horses decked out in festive garb and drew spectators from all over metro Detroit. The parade is unique in that it only features horses, creating a peaceful atmosphere with the sound of hooves and jingling bells.
Participants in this year’s parade included Katie Stanford with her Chestnut pony Edna, Karlie Gest with her Belgian horse Cal, Suzanne Demink with a white rescue pony named Sally Mae, and Anna Roegner on Rosie the Buckskin. The parade showcased a variety of horses and riders, with each bringing their own unique flair to the event. To participate in next year’s parade, the cost is $10 for a single rider, $50 for five or more horses, and free for 4H, equestrian teams, and horse rescues.
The money raised from the parade goes to the Michigan Horse Welfare Coalition Hay Bank, which provides temporary hay and feed assistance to horse owners facing financial hardship, rescues, and law enforcement. Information for next year’s parade will be posted on the Lexington Old Fashion Christmas Horse Parade #1 Facebook group. The event continues to be a beloved tradition in the community, bringing together horse enthusiasts and spectators for a festive and heartwarming celebration.
