The much-loved Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival and Parade has made its festive return to Chicago, marking its 34th anniversary.
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This cherished event kicks off the holiday season the weekend before Thanksgiving, featuring the iconic Mickey and Minnie Mouse from Walt Disney World Resort as they light up North Michigan Avenue.
For those who miss the live spectacle, ABC7 will provide a special broadcast of the parade the following day, Sunday, November 23, at 6 p.m.
Adding to the excitement, Chicago’s very own Plain White T’s delivered a free concert at 1 p.m. before participating in the parade festivities.
This year’s line-up also includes DJ White Shadow, a GRAMMY-winning producer and Chicago native, unveiling a brand-new Chicago-themed float, along with a performance by Club Nouveau with their classic hit “Lean on Me.”
Organizers anticipated that this spectacular celebration would attract up to one million attendees, making it the largest evening parade in the United States and the third-largest parade overall.
There are floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands, celebrities, musical performances and, of course, 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 were asked to wear holiday sweaters in an effort to break a record for the most at a parade.
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.
