The 91st annual Chicago Thanksgiving Parade will step off Thursday, kicking off a weekend of celebrations in the city and suburbs.
The iconic parade will march down one of the city’s most famous streets, bringing out tens of thousands of revelers and drawing in a variety of musical acts, celebrities and colorful floats.
Here’s what you need to know about the event.
What time does the parade start?
According to organizers, the parade is set to get underway at approximately 8:45 a.m. Thursday, and will run through 11 a.m.
Where does the parade take place?
The parade route runs along State Street in Chicago, starting at the intersection with Ida B. Wells Drive and ending at Randolph Street, according to the parade’s website.
Who is this year’s Grand Marshal?
According to organizers, this year’s grand marshal is celebrity chef Maurice “Chef Blaque” Shelton, known for his incredible confectionary creations.
“I’m beyond excited and honored to be named Grand Marshal of the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade,” he said in a statement. “This city gave me my foundation, and to be able to give back as Grand Marshal during such a beloved event is a full-circle moment for me. Chicago’s rich culture and resilience are reflected in everything I do, from my pastries to my community work.”
Shelton has won competitions on Food Network and Netflix, and operates Blak Rose Patries and Steel City Bakery.
Will the parade be televised?
This year’s parade can be seen on CBS, according to organizers.
Who will be performing in this year’s parade?
A wide variety of acts will be present at the event, including the iconic Jesse White Tumblers. The Chicago Chorus Girl Project, Derby High School’s marching band, and Oak Grove High School’s band are also among the groups participating in the parade.
Will the city be stepping up security after shootings occurred shortly after last week’s Christmas tree lighting?
After multiple shootings occurred in the Loop following the Christmas tree lighting in Millennium Park, with the attacks blamed on so-called “Teen Takeovers,” police have promised they will have a visible presence around the parade.
“As with all major events throughout the city, the Chicago Police Department will be present and visible along the Thanksgiving Day parade route and other celebrations this upcoming holiday season,” the department said. “CPD will monitor developments to ensure resources are in place to maintain public safety for those taking part in holiday festivities, as well as all who live and work in the areas of celebrations.”
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said the city has not received any intelligence that any “teen takeovers” will occur around the parade route or in the downtown area in coming days, but said he’s committed to public safety in the aftermath of the shootings.
“It’s my top priority of keeping people in the city safe. It’s what I think about the moment I wake up and before I go to bed. And last weekend is not indicative of who we really are as a city,” he said.
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