The vibrant Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival and Parade is set to make a dazzling return for its 34th year this November in Chicago.
Scheduled for the weekend preceding Thanksgiving, on November 22, the event will once again feature the enchanting presence of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, direct from Walt Disney World Resort, as they light up North Michigan Avenue with their magic.
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The festivities will kick off with a special treat for music enthusiasts as Chicago’s own Plain White T’s take the stage for a complimentary concert at 1 p.m., setting the tone before they join the parade festivities.
Adding to the excitement, the parade will showcase a performance by DJ White Shadow, a GRAMMY-winning producer and proud Chicago native, who will unveil a float celebrating the essence of Chicago. Attendees will also enjoy the nostalgic sounds of Club Nouveau as they perform their timeless classic “Lean on Me.”
Organizers anticipate that up to one million spectators will gather to witness what is recognized as the largest evening parade in the United States and the third-largest parade nationwide.
The event promises a spectacular lineup, including eye-catching floats, towering helium balloons, energetic marching bands, beloved celebrities, captivating musical performances, and the much-anticipated appearance of Santa Claus.
“The festival features the illumination of one million lights on over 200 trees along North Michigan Avenue, marking the official start of the holiday season in Chicago, throughout Illinois and nationwide,” organizers said.
Attendees are asked to wear holiday sweaters in an effort to break a record for the most at a parade.
See details:
Lights Festival Lane: 11 am. to 4 p.m. at Pioneer Court, 401 N. Michigan Ave. in Chicago
Parade: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., south on North Michigan Avenue from Oak Street to Wacker Drive
Fireworks Display: North Michigan Avenue and the Chicago River
Visit TheMagnificentMile.com for more information.
ABC7 Chicago is a proud sponsor of the event.
The Walt Disney Co. is the parent company of this ABC station.
