Two of the city's longest running parades, The Bud Billiken Day Parade and the Thanksgiving Day Parade, began when organizers wanted to do something special for Chicagoans. The Billiken parade was created to celebrate the kids who sold the Chicago Defender newspaper, and the Thanksgiving parade emerged as a way to cheer up the city during the Great Depression.
To this day, all of Chicago's parades are free to attend. Find some of Chicago's most popular parades here and information about their dates, times, starting and ending points, and other essential information.
To this day, all of Chicago's parades are free to attend. Find some of Chicago's most popular parades here and information about their dates, times, starting and ending points, and other essential information.
St. Patrick's Day Parade
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Learn more about the downtown celebration of all things Irish. Also, it's on this day that the city dyes the Chicago River green.
South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade
Courtesy Chicago Stockyard Kilty Band
Shortly after this parade took place in 2009, organizers said they would put the parade on hold indefinitely. The parade became wildly popular and began to take a toll on the community. You can learn more about that decision here and about the parade's history.
Memorial Day Parade
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A wonderful way to remember and honor all of those who have served our country. Plus, it's kind of a nice way to welcome summer, too.
Gay Pride Parade
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Kind of like attending Mardi Gras, an Abba concert, and a leather convention all rolled into one moving event. Expect it, enjoy it, and celebrate pride.
Bud Billiken Parade & Picnic
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One of the oldest parades in the city is a permanent appointment on many African-Americans' summertime calendar.
Halloween Happenings
Get spooky and costume-y with this parade.Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
This parade runs the magnificent mile of Michigan Avenue and kicks-off the holiday shopping season.Thanksgiving Day Parade
McDonald's Thanksgiving Day Parade
The way this works is that you go to the parade first, then you eat turkey. No wonder it's a favorite family tradition.
Toys for Tots Motorcycle Parade
Courtesy Chicago Toys for Tots
Delivering gifts for kids in need via motorcycle. What's not to love?