If you’re planning to join the crowds at Chicago’s annual Pride Parade on Sunday — with its colorful floats, marching bands and glitter galore — 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 — and can’t — bring
You can bring: strollers, binoculars, cameras, reusable water bottles, sunscreen, snacks and other 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 CTA will be one of the easiest forms of transportation on parade day. For those taking the Red Line the best stops to exit will be: Wilson (located a mile north of the start of the parade), Sheridan, Addison and Belmont (most crowded).
Brown Line-users should exit at: Belmont, Wellington or Diversey (near the end of the parade).
With street closures and excessive traffic, CTA buses may be re-routed and are not recommended.
Driving: Street closures will make driving difficult and parking is limited. If driving, it’s recommended to carpool and park a few blocks away from the parade route to avoid traffic.
Ticketing
No tickets are needed. The parade is open and free.
Accessibility
Designated 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 forecast
According to the National Weather Service, the high on Sunday will be 92 degrees with a chance of showers after 1 p.m. Drink lots of water, bring sunscreen and try to keep cool.
Pets
Pets are allowed in the viewing area of the parade — not in the parade itself. However, PRIDEChicago recommends keeping nervous pups and other pets at home. The streets will be crowded with many distractions and could be overwhelming for animals.
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