Chicago Thanksgiving Parade 2024

Visit this year's celebration of Thanksgiving Day in Chicago and start the holiday season with this colorful parade!

The first Christmas holiday parade in Chicago happened in 1934! It was organized to boost the city's economy and lift the people’s spirits, as America had been enduring the Great Depression for several years. The idea came from Walter Gregory, President of Chicago's State Street Council, who led the Christmas caravan with Santa Claus by his side!

In 1999, the parade began to take place on Thanksgiving Day in the morning.

The Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade takes place along Chicago's iconic State Street, from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street. The parade starts at 8 am and lasts until 11 am.

If you want to experience a fun-filled morning celebrating the beginning of the holiday season, plan your trip to Chicago for Thursday, November 28!

What to Expect When Attending Chicago Thanksgiving Parade 2024

This year's parade will bring a colorful procession, live entertainment, performances, and holiday spirit! It will surely put smiles on anyone’s face!

You can expect to see marching bands presenting their music, enormous balloons, and performances from local schools, dance groups, and professional entertainers.

At the end of the Thanksgiving morning parade, you can watch Santa Claus make his grand entrance.

Pluto TV will stream the event for those who won't be able to come.

The weather is expected to be cool but not freezing, with temperatures ranging from 40s to low 50s°F (4.4°C to 10°C). Dress warmly to fully enjoy this festivity!

The event is free to attend!

Security Protocols

• Police officers will be present at the venue to ensure everyone's safe.
• Bags will be checked.
• Prohibited items include large bags and dangerous objects.

How to Get To or From the Event

• CTA (Chicago Transit Authority): Take the Red Line and get off at the State/Lake station. The other option is to take the Brown, Pink, or Green Lines and get off at the Washington/Wells or State/Lake stations.
• Car: You can go by car, but remember that certain streets will be closed and you must arrive early to secure a parking spot.

Chicago Thanksgiving Parade 2024 Bag Policy

Bags and backpacks larger than 12"x12"x6" aren't allowed. There's no designated area along the parade route to store your luggage.

If you're traveling with your luggage, we offer you an easy solution - Bounce.

Our platform helps store bags, and you can reach us through our website or via our mobile app.

Chicago Thanksgiving Parade 2024 Bag Storage

Store Your Belonging With Bounce and Participate in The Festive Parade

We offer a very simple solution with our Bounce partner.

Track our Bounce luggage storage locations in Chicago, find the perfect spot, and contact us online. Bounce partners with trusted local businesses throughout the city and provides storage for only $5.90 per day, offering secure storage solutions. Booking includes $10,000 of protection and no cancellation fee! Our support is 24/7, so you can relax and fully enjoy your visit to this city and its celebration!

How to Stow Your Bag at Chicago Thanksgiving Parade 2024 With Bounce

Secure your bags this way:

• Book in three steps: Choose the location, contact a Bounce partner, and pay online.
• Arrive at the location: With the confirmation of payment, leave your bags at the chosen location.
• Enjoy: Don't worry about your belongings, and be a part of the magnificent procession.

How to Make the Most Out of Chicago Thanksgiving Parade 2024

• Arrive early and secure your viewing spot: There will be a huge crowd, so arrive there on time to find the best spot from where you can see all the performances, balloons, and much more!
• Bring snacks and drinks: It's a good idea to bring some drinks like coffee to warm you up. Also, if you're going with kids, pack some tasty snacks!
• Explore Chicago: You'll have plenty of time left after the parade. Explore downtown Chicago and have fun!

Prepare your bags for the trip to Chicago, leave them with Bounce, and enjoy this festive parade that will warm up your heart!