A parade in Chicago is always a big deal, and those that take place in the city’s downtown are well attended. This comprehensive guide helps you discover detailed information about the most famous parades in Chicago.

Bud Billiken Parade

Every second Saturday in August, Chicago hosts the country’s largest African-American parade, which was launched in 1929. Catering to families, the parade travels on the South Side, starting at 39th Street and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, ending at 55th Street in Washington Park, home to the DuSable Museum of African American History. It features marching bands, professional athletes, actors, radio personalities, and politicians.

Over the years, a plethora of A-list stars and dignitaries have participated, including Muhammad Ali, Joe Louis, President Barack Obama (as a U.S. senator), Michael Jordan, Oprah Winfrey, and Chance the Rapper, among others.

Chinese Lunar New Year Parade

The New Year Parade celebrates the Lunar New Year and marches through Chinatown on the near South Side. It’s not only a festive event but also a great opportunity to dine and shop at authentic Chinese businesses. Access from downtown hotels is easy via the CTA Red Line, which stops just steps away from the parade route.

Columbus Day Parade

A city with a major street named Columbus Drive fittingly honors Christopher Columbus and his journey to the Americas with a parade on the same street each Columbus Day. This event is a rich and celebrated tradition in Chicago’s Italian-American community.

Gay Pride Parade

While Gay Pride is celebrated throughout June, the last two weekends mark the most significant events. The Chicago Pride Festival takes place in Lakeview (a.k.a. Boystown) on Halsted Street between Addison and Grace streets.

The Gay Pride Parade culminates with festivities on the last Sunday of the month, starting at noon. It begins at Broadway and Montrose Avenues, continues south on Broadway, south on Halsted, east on Belmont, and south again on Broadway before concluding at Diversey to Cannon Drive. This event is free to the public although a $10 donation is suggested.

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and their friends kick off the holiday season during the annual parade and festival along the famous Magnificent Mile shopping district. More than one million lights on 200 trees are lit during the event, which includes live performances. During Lights Festival Lane on the Plaza (401 N. Michigan Ave.), family-friendly performances and special deals on hotel rates, shopping, and dining can also be found. This festival, occurring in mid-November, culminates in a spectacular fireworks display over the Chicago River.

Memorial Day Parade

As one of the largest Memorial Day parades in the nation, Chicago has honored U.S. fallen soldiers with a parade since 1870. Currently, the parade runs along State Street downtown the Saturday before Memorial Day. A wreath-laying ceremony occurs at 11:00 a.m., followed by the parade at noon.

Mexican Independence Parade in Chicago

Chicago, which has a significant Mexican population, celebrates its culture every September during the Mexican Independence Day Parade along Columbus Drive. Participants include community members, schools, businesses, and corporate supporters showcasing lively floats and the vibrant sounds of Mexican music throughout this festive celebration.

Puerto Rican People’s Day Parade

The Puerto Rican Parade combines two major events: the Humboldt Park community parade and the downtown celebrations. Held in late June at Division and Maple streets in Humboldt Park, this parade honors the country’s largest Puerto Rican population, with the festival occurring all day at Division Street and California Avenue. Participation is free and open to the public.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

With many Chicago residents having deep Irish roots, everyone embraces their Irish identity come St. Patrick’s Day. The city celebrates with its iconic St. Patrick’s Day Parade and the annual dyeing of the Chicago River. This popular event occurs the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day and is an ideal time to explore Chicago’s celebrated Irish bars. Arriving early is advisable to secure a good spot along the river for the dyeing and the parade, which draws an enthusiastic crowd of party-goers.

Thanksgiving Parade

While New York isn’t the only city that boasts a large Thanksgiving Day parade, Chicago also holds a spectacular event along iconic State Street. This lively celebration features large inflatable character balloons, marching bands, dance acts, and decorated floats. Mark your calendar for November 28 and secure a viewing spot to enjoy the festivities from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m.