While it might not be the biggest parade in Chicago, the Chicago Pride Parade makes up for it by being the most fun. It’s more one big party that happens to have a parade going on during said party. This years parade will take place on Sunday June 28th, 2015. For full event details visit the Chicago Pride Parade event page here. This year marks the 46th anniversary of the parade. Last year’s parade was one for the books as gay marriage in Illinois was officially legalized that same month. We’re still waiting on the announcement for the official lineup of floats and Grand Marshal. This year is expected to have over 200 entries consisting of local and national businesses, organizations, churches, and politicians.

The Parade will kick off at the intersection of Montrose Ave. and Broadway St. See this year’s official parade route HERE.

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The first Chicago Pride Parade was in June, 1970. Although, the first parade wasn’t really a parade, but more of a protest march. The original parade/march started at Washing Square Park and went to the Water Tower. The original march was a result of the Stonewall Riots in 1969. Those riots began when LGBT guests staying at The Stonewall Inn in Greenwich City New York, fell victim to a police raid on June 27th, 1969.  The incident at Stonewall Inn is considered one of the most important events for sparking the gay rights movement.

The Chicago Pride Parade has doubled in size over the past decade. In 2009 the attendance was a little more than 500,000.  By 2011 the attendance was over 800,000. Over 1 million people attended last year’s parade and this year’s is poised to be even bigger.  Some notable Grand Marshals have included George Takei and Chely Wright.   The Pride Parade also features many local politicians from both the Republican and Democratic parties.

With the attendance growing each year, finding a place to stay during the parade weekend can be pretty difficult. If you plan on attending this year’s Pride Parade and are from out of town, we reccommend making plans as early as possible. There are still rooms available at Holiday Jones and our other property Urban Holiday Lofts.

Once the parade organizers post the official lineup, we will post it on our blog and event’s page.