The city of Chicago hosts one of the largest and the most vibrant LGBTQ+ parades in the nation, the annual Chicago Pride Parade. This event is a celebration of the rich diversity and history of the LGBTQ+ community, and all are welcome to participate! The 52nd annual Chicago Pride Parade is set to take place on Sunday, June 25, 2023, and will start at noon sharp from Montrose and Broadway in the Uptown neighborhood.
The Chicago Pride Parade is a highlight of Pride Month in Chicago, which features a series of events and activities throughout June. This annual parade draws over a million participants and visitors each year, with an array of colorful floats, flags, costumes, and music that creates an electrifying atmosphere of joy and excitement.
The Parade Route
The Chicago Pride Parade route runs along a 4-mile stretch from the Uptown neighborhood, down to Lakeview, and ends in Lincoln Park. Along the way, it passes by historic landmarks, diverse communities, popular bars, and restaurants, creating an ideal setting for a day of celebration and pride. The parade presents a unique opportunity to showcase the city’s rich diversity and inclusiveness and gives participants a chance to interact with the thousands of spectators that gather to witness the parade’s spectacle.
How to Get There
The Chicago Pride Parade is a widely popular event that attracts people from all over the country, which can make getting to the parade route a bit of a challenge. Public transportation is highly encouraged since parking is nearly impossible.
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) provides several options to get to the parade route. The Red Line train runs parallel to the parade route, with several stations near it, including the Addison, Sheridan, and Wilson. Riders can also take the Brown Line to the Montrose station and walk east to Broadway. The #36 Broadway bus, #22 Clark bus, and #151 Sheridan bus all run along or near the parade route.
Parade Tips and Recommendations
Here are some useful tips and recommendations to ensure an enjoyable Chicago Pride Parade experience:
- Arrive early: Due to its immense popularity, the Chicago Pride Parade attracts large crowds. Arriving early will give ample time to find a spot with a good view.
- Bring sunscreen and plenty of water: Chicago Pride Parade takes place in June when temperatures can get high, and sunburns are always a concern. So sunscreen and water are a must.
- Stay hydrated: With lots of dancing, singing, and enjoying the festivities, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water. So carry a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Bring cash: A few of the vendors may not accept credit cards, so having cash on hand can come in handy.
- Respect others’ space: Since this is a crowded event, it’s important to be mindful of others’ space and avoid causing any inconvenience.
- Have fun! This is a celebration of life, love, and acceptance, so let loose, and have some fun!
Conclusion
The Chicago Pride Parade is one of the most exciting and joyous events in the city, providing an opportunity to show support for the LGBTQ+ community and promote equality and diversity. The parade is a day-long celebration filled with music, dance, and laughter. It brings together people from all backgrounds, who want to come together and spread joy and acceptance. So, make sure to join in the festivities, and let’s create an unforgettable 52nd Chicago Pride Parade!