McDonald's® Thanksgiving Parade

Downtown Parades  >  McDonald's® Thanksgiving Parade

Santa Claus, Ronald McDonald and a cast of thousands bring you the 79th Anniversary of the McDonald's Thanksgiving Parade, marching down State Street on Thanksgiving Day, November 22nd. Whether you're moving your feet to the melodic carols of marching bands, gazing skyward at the gigantic inflatable helium balloons making their way down the street, or waving at talented entertainers in decorative floats dispensing holiday cheer, there is fun to be had by all at the biggest holiday parade in Chicago. The McDonald's Thanksgiving Parade is the only parade in the city of Chicago to feature inflatable balloons every year.

Started in the times of the Great Depression, the Parade has been lifting the spirits of Chicago and bringing the community together in celebration. Over 400,000 people lines the parade route on State Street.