If you’re looking for one of the most festive ways to kick off the holiday season, the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade should be at the top of your list. This year marks the 91st annual celebration, filling downtown Chicago with music, color, and community spirit on Thursday, November 27, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. CT.

What started back in 1934 as a simple “Christmas Caravan” has grown into one of the largest and most cherished parades in the country. Whether you’re planning to bundle up along the route or watch from home with a cup of coffee, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this Chicago tradition.

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🎺 Parade Overview

The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade marches north on State Street, starting at Ida B. Wells Drive and continuing up to Randolph Street. The three-hour celebration features over 100 performance groups — including high-energy marching bands, glittering floats, equestrian units, cultural dance ensembles, and special guests from around the world.

From local favorites like the Jesse White Tumbling Team and Chicago Boyz Acrobatic Team to international performers and community groups, it’s a vibrant showcase of what makes Chicago such a culturally rich city.

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🌟 Can’t-Miss Highlights

• Live Performances (8:00–9:00 a.m.) — The first hour is packed with dancers, choirs, and theater troupes performing right on State Street for the live broadcast.
• Marching Bands — Schools from across the U.S. (and even Mexico!) fill the air with rhythm and spirit.
• Specialty Acts & Floats — Expect everything from unicyclists and drill teams to dazzling themed floats representing Chicago’s diverse communities.
• Equestrian Units — A crowd favorite! Horses decked out in festive flair add a touch of tradition to the excitement.
• Santa’s Arrival — The big man from the North Pole makes his grand entrance to officially start the holiday season.

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📍 Parade Route & Viewing Tips

The parade runs along State Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street — a stretch lined with skyscrapers, shops, and plenty of holiday cheer.

Best Spots to Watch:

• State & Washington: Right in the TV Zone — great for performances, but arrive very early.
• State & Madison: Central location with a perfect view as floats pass by.
• South End (Ida B. Wells area): Less crowded and ideal for families with small kids.

Travel Tips:

• Arrive Early: Crowds start forming before 7 a.m., especially near the TV Zone.
• Bundle Up: Chicago mornings in late November can be chilly — layers, gloves, and warm drinks are your friends!
• Use Public Transit: Parking downtown can be tough. The CTA Red and Blue Lines both stop near the parade route.
• Bring Snacks & Drinks: There’s plenty of energy, but food options can be limited along the sidewalks once the parade starts.
• Stay After the Parade: Grab brunch or do some early holiday shopping — Macy’s on State Street (formerly Marshall Field’s) is steps away and beautifully decorated for the season.

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🎥 How to Watch from Home

If you can’t make it downtown, you can still catch all the fun! The parade will air live on Pluto TV in the Holiday section, letting viewers across the country join in the Chicago magic for free.

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💺 Want the VIP Experience?

For those who prefer a guaranteed seat and prime view, VIP bleacher seating is available in the official TV Zone. Individual sponsorships include general admission bleacher seats — perfect if you want comfort and great photos without camping out curbside.

Tickets and sponsorship details are available at chicagothanksgivingparade.com.

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❤️ Why You Should Go

The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade is more than a holiday event — it’s a reminder of what makes this city shine. It’s about celebrating gratitude, community, and cultural pride, all wrapped in a morning of festive fun. Families return year after year, and newcomers leave with a new favorite holiday tradition.

So grab your coat, pack your thermos, and head downtown to see why this parade has been filling hearts (and streets) for more than nine decades.

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🎄 Quick Info

• Date: Thursday, November 27, 2025
• Time: 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. CT
• Location: State Street, from Ida B. Wells Dr. to Randolph St.
• Cost: Free (VIP bleacher seating available)
• Broadcast: Live on Pluto TV
• Website: www.chicagothanksgivingparade.com

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✨ Follow the Parade

Stay up to date with lineup announcements, weather alerts, and behind-the-scenes fun:

• Facebook: Chicago Thanksgiving Parade
• Instagram: @ChiThanksgivingParade
• X (Twitter): @ChiThanksgiving