Chicago Thanksgiving Parade 2024

The award-winning Chicago Thanksgiving Parade returns on Thursday November 28 2024 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. CT traveling up Chicago’s legendary State Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street. A local tradition for almost 90 years kicks off the holiday season with a fun-filled morning in the heart of downtown Chicago. The family-favorite event was even named the #2 Thanksgiving parade in the country.

Event Details:

This year’s live entertainment will include the country’s top marching bands live music festive floats acrobats equestrians cultural performances celebrity hosts and larger-than-life helium balloons.

Special performers will include the Kankakee Marching Kays Bishop Noll Marching Warriors The Back of the Yards Marching Band Woodland Wildcat Marching Band and more.

Originating in the 1930s when it was called the Christmas Caravan the parade was created to help lift the spirits of those suffering through the Great Depression. It continues to be a cherished holiday tradition to this day.

Highlights of the Parade

STAGED LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Performers include local and national theatres dance troupes and beyond.

GIANT HELIUM BALLOONS

Led by Teddy the Turkey the parade’s official mascot you’ll see a cast of familiar and much-loved faces from the Grinch to Cookie Monster to Rudolph and friends.

MARCHING BAND

An annual favorite watch groups from more a dozen high schools and universities from all over the country.

SPECIALTY UNITS

Cheer on cultural groups school districts dance troupes arts groups drum lines acrobats and beyond along the parade route.

EQUESTRIANS

Including miniature horses rodeo groups and animal therapy programs.

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