How to View or Attend the 90th Annual Thanksgiving Parade in Chicago for 2024

Nov 19, 2024

The 90th Annual Thanksgiving Parade in Chicago is just around the corner, and we’re here to help you find the best ways to view the parade up close and personal. Today we’re covering some details on this year’s performances, when to arrive for both VIP and free access, and how to secure the best spots for viewing.

This year’s annual parade is hosted by Marris, Co-Host of the Angi Taylor Morning Show, and Maria Palmer from Rock 95.5 Chicago! The procession will be making its way North up state street from Ida B. Well Drive to Randolph Street from 8AM through 11AM (CT).

This year’s special guests include Lynn Whitfield from The Josephine Baker Story and The Chi; as well as performances by Reyna Roberts and Donnie Lee Strickland. Staged live performances will be happening from 8AM to 9AM and feature: ArtEast Chicago Dance Troupe, Balley Folklorico Sones Mexicanos, Crystal Lake Strikers Drumline, Dong Fang Performing Arts Association, Huaxing Arts Group, Korean Performing Arts Institute of Chicago, Lajkonik Song and Dance Ensemble, Music Theater Works, Renacer Boliviano Inc, Southern Stars featuring OVERNIGHT and Texas A&M International University. Also appearing are several equestrian groups, specialty dance and performance group teams, multiple festive floats, as well as local and regional marching bands!

This year, the parade will be aired live on Pluto TV, Paramount’s free streaming service, for families who wish to spectate from home this holiday. VIP tickets are available for a close-up look at the fun for just $70 per person. Each individual VIP Sponsorship allows entry to the VIP area. VIPs will have private portable restrooms and general admission bleacher seats for maximum comfort; VIP opens at 7AM, and it’s recommended to arrive no later than 7:30! There will be food and drinks for purchase; outside food and beverage is prohibited. Kids 2 and under are allowed as a lap-child with each parent admission.

Otherwise, the parade is free to attend, but it should be noted that it may not be the most accessible for disabled attendees due to high crowds, lots of walking and standing for three hours or more in order to view. People begin lining the streets starting around 6AM, and many bring folding chairs and blankets to keep warm (it’s not called the Windy City for nothing, after all!) Dress in layers, wearing plenty of warm winter weather attire,and consider wearing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent your face and lips from becoming chapped in the cold! Expect long lines for exiting at 11AM, and plan your afternoon accordingly. Public transit and local area hotels/restaurants will be very busy!

Veteran parade viewers recommend sending out a few adult representatives from your group to go on up ahead and save space so younger family members can take a little extra time to walk and meet them. After the parade, you can stop over to the Christkindl Holiday Market to do a little holiday shopping and extend your festive excitement (the market now has two locations: Chicago at Daley Plaza and Aurora at RiverEdge Park.)

Looking for a direct live stream of the Chicago parade to watch at home from your laptop or tablet? You can check out the Official Live Stream of the Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade on PlutoTV app and on-demand streaming services!