How to Watch The 2025 Thanksgiving Parade (91st Annual Thanksgiving Parade in Chicago, Live TV and in-person options)

The 91st 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 live broadcast will be co-hosted by iHeartRadio Rock 95.5’s Maria Palmer and Maris!  This year’s special guests include 2025 Miss Illinois, Nitsaniyah Fitch, Miss Illinois’ Teen Lillie Brown, and Rick Aspen along with Santa himself.  The procession will be making its way North up state street from Ida B. Well Drive to Randolph Street from 8AM through 11AM (CT).

Featured performances and special ensemble entertainment this year include live performances by ArtEast Studio, Ballet Folklorico Sones MExicanos, Black Ensemble Theaters’ Holiday Extravaganza, Chicago Huaxin Group, Chicago Korean Dance Company, Dong Fang Chinese Performing Arts Association, and many, many more.  Marching bands from around the country and around the globe including Back of the Yards College Preparatory, Lake Zurich High SChool, Oak Grove High School, Urban Renewal Marching Band and more will be participating in special rhythmic and color guard performances.  The parade will also feature numerous festive floats from local organizations and cultural groups and specialty performance units and equestrian units will make appearances.

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 $80 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 annual Christkindl Holiday Market  to do a little holiday shopping and extend your festive excitement!

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!

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