Detroit Tree Lighting: No guns, unsupervised minors allowed at annual holiday event

Detroit Tree Lighting: Police prepared to keep event safe

Detroit police are ready for the huge crowds expected to fill downtown for Friday's annual tree lighting. Extra officers will be on site, along with metal detectors. Also, no minors without supervision will be allowed.

DETROIT (FOX 2) - With at least 50,000 people expected to flock downtown Friday night, safeguards are in place for the Detroit Tree Lighting, as police work to keep the event safe.

Attendees of the annual event will be required to go through metal detectors when entering Campus Martius Park. Police will be looking for weapons, which are not allowed inside the event.

Drones and pets are also banned. See a full list of prohibited items below.

Additionally, all minors must be with a guardian.

Last year's event went off without a hitch, but the year before, two teen boys were shot less than a block away from Campus Martius, where the tree lighting was taking place.

"I'm asking parents to make sure that you don't just drop your kids off and that you actually come down, enjoy the festivities, and supervise them," said Detroit Interim Chief Todd Bettison.

Unsupervised teenagers are a concern for police, and they are hoping the rule that they are supervised prevents any issues that could arise.

Items not allowed at Detroit Tree Lighting

Weapons / firearms / knives / bats / clubs
Mace / pepper spray
Laser pointers / any similar devices
Fireworks / smoke bombs
Audio / visual recording devices (go-pro, etc.)
Missile-like objects that can be thrown
Backpacks / hard-sided bags
Aerosol cans / liquids over 4 ounces
Illegal substances
Any form of marijuana
Pets
Drones
Skateboards / hoverboards
Whistles / horns
Banners / flags / offensive signs
Frisbees / beach balls / balloons
Chairs
Poles / selfie sticks / monopods / tripods
Professional / commercial cameras
Cameras with detachable lenses / lenses longer than four inches
Outside food / beverage
Clothing / garments displaying explicit, profane or derogatory characterization
Any / other items deemed to be dangerous by park security and facility management
Any item determined by the venue