Classic Kia’s Guide on How to Secure the Best Spot at the Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade November 2022

Nov 21, 2022

The 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.

This year’s annual procession will be making its way North up state street from Ida B. Well Drive to Randolph Street from 8AM through 11AM. 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.

Special staged appearances this year are scheduled in the main stage area between Washington and Randolph Streets from 8AM to 9AM with: American Blues Theater, Chicago Korean Dance Company, Cirque Experience, Country music recording artist Donnie Lee Strickland, Crystal Lake Strikers Drumline, Danza Azteca Xochitl-Quetzal, Jesse White Tumbling Team, Music Theater Works.

There will also be marching bands from 19 different schools and colleges/universities, as well as multiple Equestrian Demonstrations, and dozens of floats and gigantic helium balloons! And of course, dear ol’ Saint Nick will be bringing up the close. Esteemed and honored guests this year also include Monica Nia-Jones, crowned Miss Illinois 2022, and Mia Fritsch-Anderson, crowned Miss Outstanding Teen 2022

You can catch the parade from the comfort of your own couch on its new home of CW26 hosted by Jen Lilley and Jesse Hutch, but VIP tickets are available for a close-up look at the fun for just $60 per person 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! 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 at Daley Plaza at 50 W Washington Street, which will be open on Thanksgiving day from 11AM to 4PM.

Looking for a direct live stream of the parade to watch at home from your laptop or tablet? You can check out this Official Live Stream of the Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade on YouTube which goes live at 9AM!