Fairmount Park in Philadelphia in Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)

First Thanksgiving Day Parade in the Nation

Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), December 17, 2022

1. First Thanksgiving Day Parade in the Nation Marker

Inscription. Founded in 1920 by the Gimbrel's Department Store, it modestly featured 15 ceremonial cars and holiday figures such as Santa Claus. The Parade steadily grew in size and stature, and now marches annually on this glorious route down the world-famous cultural corridor, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. This officially kicks off the holiday season in Philadelphia, "the City of firsts," continuing precious time-honored traditions and memories for generations of visitors and Philadelphians alike.

Erected by The City of Philadelphia.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Notable Events • Roads & Vehicles. A significant historical year for this entry is 1920.

Location. 39° 57.886′ N, 75° 10.731′ W. Marker is in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia County. It is in Fairmount Park. Marker is at the intersection of Eakins Oval and Spring Garden Street on Eakins Oval. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Philadelphia PA 19130, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Mounted Amazon Attacked by a Panther / The Lion Fighter (within shouting distance of this marker); From Reservoir to Art Museum / Parkway Museums District (within shouting distance of this marker); Sculpture in East Park / Sculpture in West Park

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(within shouting distance of this marker); Washington Monument (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Washington Monument (within shouting distance of this marker); Julian Francis Abele (within shouting distance of this marker); Charioteer of Delphi (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Philadelphia Civic Flag (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Philadelphia.

Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), December 17, 2022

2. First Thanksgiving Day Parade in the Nation Marker

Credits. This page was last revised on February 2, 2023. It was originally submitted on December 20, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 155 times since then and 19 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on December 20, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.