Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024 • State Street
It’s turkey time! The Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade, 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 by TimeOut Magazine.
The parade takes over Chicago’s iconic State Street in the Loop from 8 – 11 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning. Watch the colorful procession make its way up State Street from Ida B. Wells Drive north to Randolph Street at this free, all-ages event.
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.
Thanksgiving Day parade highlights
The 2024 parade promises to be an unforgettable one, with a diverse line-up of entertainment from all over the country. Stay tuned for full updates on the 2024 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 bands: 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.
Where to watch the Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade
The procession will travel north on a historic stretch of Chicago’s Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street. Make sure to get there early to get a spot, or opt for the VIP experience for guaranteed seating with great views. Pluto TV will live stream this year’s parade for a national audience.
Looking for more things to do on Thanksgiving Day in Chicago? Check out our guide to Thanksgiving dinner in Chicago, with the best dine-in and take-out options.
