Chicago - Event

Dating back to 1934, the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade tempts 350,000 people onto the streets, with another 1.5 million watching on TV. In the nippy autumn air marchers proceed up State Street - from Congress Street north to Randolph Street.

The Chicago parade gives New York a run for its money - last year it had more giant inflatables than the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Approximately 100 groups participate each year, including marching bands, giant helium balloons and floats.