The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade returns to downtown this Thursday, marking its 91st year as “Chicago’s Grand Holiday Tradition.” On Thursday, November 27, 2025, State Street will turn into a festive corridor of marching bands, giant balloons, floats, and holiday performances from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (CST).
Whether you’re watching from the sidewalks or from your sofa, here are the exact details on how to watch live, the parade route, start time, and schedule — with all official links included.
When is the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade 2025?
- Date: Thursday, November 27, 2025 (Thanksgiving Day)
- Time: 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. CST
- Step-off: The parade steps off around 8:00 a.m. at Ida B. Wells Drive and State Street and then proceeds north.
Official event details are available on the parade’s website: Chicago Thanksgiving Parade – Official Site .
Parade Route: State Street From Ida B. Wells to Randolph
The 2025 Chicago Thanksgiving Parade takes over State Street in the Loop:
- Start: Ida B. Wells Drive & State Street
- Finish: Randolph Street & State Street
- Direction: The parade travels north along State Street
You can find an official overview of the time and route on: Choose Chicago – Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade Guide .
For more route and street-closure details, local outlets like Time Out Chicago and others also publish updates, including: Time Out – Chicago Thanksgiving Parade Timing & Street Closures .
Best Places to Watch In Person
- Anywhere along State Street between Ida B. Wells Drive and Randolph Street
- Central spots like State & Madison or near the Chicago Theatre
- Arrive by around 7:00 a.m. if you want a front-row spot along the curb
Where to Watch the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade Live on TV
For 2025, the official broadcast partner is CBS Chicago (WBBM-TV, Channel 2).
- Local TV in Chicagoland: CBS Chicago (Channel 2) – Parade Broadcast Info
- Live broadcast schedule: 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. CST on CBS 2 Chicago
The parade’s own broadcast page confirms the 2025 TV details here: Chicago Thanksgiving Parade – Broadcast Info .
How to Stream the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade Live
If you’re watching from outside Chicago — or you just prefer streaming — you have multiple official options:
- CBS News Chicago Streaming Channel: You can stream the parade for free via the CBS News Chicago digital channel, accessible through the CBS News Chicago website and the CBS News app on many smart TVs and devices.
- Pluto TV (Free Streaming): The parade is streamed nationally and across the Americas on Pluto TV’s holiday channel. Find Pluto TV at pluto.tv , then search for its seasonal/holiday channel that carries the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade. More details on this expanded streaming partnership are here: Parade & Pluto TV Streaming Announcement .
Various local guides also list CBS and Pluto TV as the official ways to watch, such as: Secret Chicago – Essential Guide to the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade .
What Time Should Viewers Tune In?
- On TV / Streaming: Tune in by 8:00 a.m. CST on CBS Chicago or Pluto TV.
- In Person: Aim to arrive on State Street by 7:00 a.m. for the best viewing spots.
Street Closures & Travel Tips
Expect closures and heavy traffic in the Loop around the route:
- State Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street
- Cross streets near the route will see rolling closures and heavy congestion
- CTA trains are strongly recommended instead of driving, as downtown garages fill up early
For the most up-to-date road closure information, check the City of Chicago’s official updates on Thanksgiving parade preparations and traffic advisories.
What You’ll See in the 91st Chicago Thanksgiving Parade
The 2025 edition features:
- High school and college marching bands from across the country
- Giant character balloons floating above State Street
- Holiday floats, cultural performance groups, and dance teams
- Equestrian units and specialty acts
- A finale appearance from Santa Claus to officially kick off the holiday season
Watch: Chicago Thanksgiving Parade 2025 – Latest Updates
For more visuals, on-the-ground coverage, and updated information about the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade 2025, watch the video below:
If the video does not load, you can open it directly on YouTube here: Chicago Thanksgiving Parade 2025 – YouTube .
Planning a Full Thanksgiving Parade Day?
If you’re a parade fan, you can also compare Chicago’s celebration with New York’s iconic event. For example, you can read a full guide to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2025: Time, Route & How to Watch on Swikblog to see how both parades line up on TV, streaming, and route details.
Quick FAQ: Chicago Thanksgiving Parade 2025
- Is the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade free? Yes, watching from the street is free.
- Do I need tickets? General sidewalk viewing is free; VIP grandstand experiences can be purchased via the official site.
- Can I watch from outside Chicago? Yes, via Pluto TV and the CBS News Chicago stream.
To double-check any last-minute updates before you publish or head downtown, visit the official Chicago Thanksgiving Parade website and the broadcast information page .
