As Chicago gears up to celebrate its 91st annual Thanksgiving Parade, the city is expecting a significant turnout with tens of thousands set to line up Downtown. According to information from WGN-TV, the festive event will begin at Ida B. Wells Drive, weaving its way along State to Randolph. Families will have the chance to marvel at the floats, balloons, and an array of performances from guests originating both locally and around the globe.
The parade has a scheduled start time of 8 a.m. on Thursday, although NBC Chicago reports that the festivities are set to get underway at approximately 8:45 a.m. — a slight variation in timing for attendees to note. The event is expected to run through 11 a.m., promising holiday cheer across the city. This year's Grand Marshal, celebrity chef Maurice “Chef Blaque” Shelton, figures to add a touch of culinary prestige to the parade, stating, "to be able to give back as Grand Marshal during such a beloved event is a full-circle moment for me," as per a statement obtained by NBC Chicago.
CBS will televise the parade for those wishing to catch the action from the comfort of their own homes. Live performances look to entertain the crowd, with highlighted acts like the Jesse White Tumblers and various school bands. The inclusion of Chef Shelton, known for his creations featured on Food Network and Netflix, and his local establishments, Blak Rose Patries and Steel City Bakery, guarantees an extra sparkle to watch for amid the celebration.
In the wake of recent security concerns following shootings at the city's Christmas tree lighting, the public is assured a reinforced police presence. "The Chicago Police Department will be present and visible along the Thanksgiving Day parade route and other celebrations this upcoming holiday season," to maintain public safety for those taking part in the festivities, as well as all who live and work in the area, the department told NBC Chicago. Mayor Brandon Johnson has vowed to prioritize safety, committing to vigilance in the aftermath of the shootings. "It's my top priority of keeping people in the city safe," Johnson told NBC Chicago, dispelling the notion that the prior week's events reflect the true spirit of the city.
