Planning to join the crowds at Chicago’s annual Pride Parade on Sunday? Here’s what you need to know:
Pride Parade route
The parade begins at 11 a.m. at West Sheridan Road and North Broadway — viewing begins at West Grace Street and North Broadway. It continues south along North Broadway, then to North Halsted Street and east along West Belmont Avenue to North Broadway. Finally south to West Diversey Parkway, ending at the corner of North Sheridan Road and West Diversey Parkway.
What you can, can’t bring
You can bring: strollers, binoculars, cameras, reusable water bottles, sunscreen, snacks and items to beat the heat.
You can’t bring: alcohol, bicycles, scooters, coolers, drones, fireworks, folding chairs, propane, propane tanks, tents, canopies, structures, tripods, monopos, selfie sticks, vending or weapons according to PRIDEChicago.
Getting to the Pride Parade
Public transit: Taking the L is likely to be your best bet, with streets closed, heavy traffic and CTA buses rerouted. If you take the CTA Red Line, the best stops to exit will be Wilson (a mile north of the start of the parade), Sheridan or Addison and, for Brown Line riders, Wellington or Diversey (near the end of the parade route). On both L lines, Belmont is convenient, but it’s also the most crowded.
Driving: Street closings will make driving difficult, and parking is limited. If you do drive, best to carpool and park a few blocks from the parade route.
It’s free
The parade is free. You don’t need a ticket.
Accessibility
Viewing areas for wheelchairs and mobility devices are available near 600 W. Diversey Parkway. Accessible portable restrooms will also be available at this location.
Weather
According to the National Weather Service, the high Sunday will be 92 degrees with a chance of showers after 1 p.m. So bring water and sunscreen.
Pets
Pets are allowed in the viewing area but not in the parade itself. But PRIDEChicago recommends keeping pets at home because the streets will be crowded, there will be distractions everywhere, and it all could be overwhelming for animals.