BREAKING: The highly anticipated Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival and Parade is back in Chicago for its 34th year, lighting up North Michigan Avenue with festive cheer just ahead of Thanksgiving. This year’s event promises to be bigger than ever, featuring beloved characters Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse from Walt Disney World Resort, alongside a dazzling display of lights and entertainment.
The festival kicks off on Saturday, November 22, with activities running from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Pioneer Court, located at 401 N. Michigan Ave. The main parade follows, starting at 5:30 p.m. and proceeding south on North Michigan Avenue from Oak Street to Wacker Drive, concluding at 7:30 p.m.. A spectacular fireworks display will light up the night sky over the Chicago River after the parade.
Anticipation is high as organizers expect up to 1 million attendees for the U.S.’s largest evening parade and the third-largest parade in the nation. Festivities will include floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands, and live performances. Chicago’s own Plain White T’s will perform a free concert at 1 p.m. before joining the parade, ensuring that the energy remains vibrant throughout the day.
This year’s lineup also includes DJ White Shadow, a GRAMMY-winning producer and Chicago native, debuting a Chicago-themed float, along with Club Nouveau performing their classic hit “Lean on Me.”
The festival marks the official start of the holiday season in Chicago, illuminating over 200 trees with a stunning display of one million lights. Attendees are encouraged to wear holiday sweaters in an attempt to break a record for the most worn at a parade.
As excitement builds, ABC7 will air a special broadcast of the parade on Sunday, November 23, at 6 p.m., allowing those who can’t attend to experience the magic from home.
For more information on this festive celebration, visit TheMagnificentMile.com. ABC7 Chicago is a proud sponsor of this iconic event, which promises to create unforgettable memories and kick off the holiday season in style.
Stay tuned for live updates as the festival unfolds!
