Frequently asked questions

The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade is held on Thanksgiving morning from 8AM-10AM. Thursday, November 26th, 2026. Step off from Ida B. Wells and State will be at 7:40AM. This is ONE HOUR earlier than the last few years.

The 92nd Chicago Thanksgiving Parade will step-off at Ida B. Wells and State Street and continue North on State Street to Randolph.

Volunteers must apply through our website. Head over the the "VOLUNTEER" tab and fill out the application. If your application is selected, our team will contact you directly. Please note, Balloon handler positions are given to volunteers with previous balloon handling experience and are required to attend an onsite training session.

Applications to perform in the 92nd Chicago Thanksgiving Parade are open now through May 1st. You may apply to perform by submitting an application on our "PERFORM" page.

It is FREE to view the parade along State Street from Ida B. Wells to Washington. Our VIP TV ZONE seats between Washington and Randolph in front of Macy's, are available to Individual Sponsors of the parade. Cost to become an individual sponsor is $80.

Guests in our VIP TV ZONE may bring a blanket, stadium seat or seat cushion. As long as the item is for one seat space and doesn't cause obstruction of view. Guests may also bring in clear bags. Bags are subject to search by event staff. Outside food and beverage is prohibited.

Our official Hotel Partner, The Godfrey Hotel Chicago has generously provided a room block at a fantastic rate for parade guests. This special is available for the entire week of Thanksgiving. Space is limited and will sell out. Please book early at: https://www.godfreyhotelchicago.com/book/dates-of-stay?RatePlanId=11204837

The London House has also blocked a limited number of rooms for our guests here:

https://www.hilton.com/en/book/reservation/rooms/?ctyhocn=CHILHQQ&arrivalDate=2026-11-24&departureDate=2026-11-27&groupCode=CPT&room1NumAdults=1&cid=OM%2CWW%2CHILTONLINK%2CEN%2CDirectLink

For the premium views and seating, we recommend snagging a spot as and Individual Parade Sponsor in our VIP TV Zone. https://www.chiparade.com/vip-tix

Seating is LIMITED. It will sell out. Seating is located in front of Macy's on State Street and can be accessed via Washington & State or Randolph & State, simply "Meet me under the clock!"