Are you looking for something fun to do with the family on Thanksgiving morning? If you live close to Chicago, Illinois you can attend the annual McDonald’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 24, 2011. The parade starts at 8am and ends at 11am central time. The parade takes place on State Street from Congress Parkway to Randolph Street
Since the weather is unpredictable you should be prepared for all conditions. Bring your winter coat, blankets, and raincoat for the entire family. If you chill easily bring a portable heating pad to keep you warm for a while. It’s important to arrive early to beat the crowd especially if you have small children or are disabled. On the SW and SE corner of State Street there is special seating for the disabled and people with special needs. To keep your children safe you should bring them in a car seat or stroller to avoid losing them. Pack drinks in a cooler or diaper bag since someone is bound to get thirsty. A few toys will entertain the little ones.
For your convenience parking will be available at InterPark on East Randolph, 17 East Adams, 203 North LaSalle, and 181 North Dearborn.
The entertainment for the parade will include: the marching bands, equestrian units, floats, inflatable, specialties, honored guests, and staged performances. Sometimes there are local and national celebrities visiting Chicago.
The giant helium balloons scheduled for this year are Pilgrim Garfield, Curious George Spacesuit, Rocky J. Squirrel, The Smurfs, Teddy Turkey, Big Bird, Arthur, Bullwinkle J. Moose, Odie, Yogi Bear, Fred Flintstone, and Elmo. The parade is sure to be an exciting event for both young and old.
The parade uses volunteers each year for the marching band, equestrian, floats, inflatable’s, specialty unit, honored guests, and stage performances. All volunteers need to be over twelve years old. You can apply online at Chicago Festival to volunteer in 2012. Every year the parade uses 1,300 volunteers.
People who live outside the area can reserve a room at the Sheraton Hotel and Towers. The hotel’s address is 301 East North Water Street Chicago, Illinois. At the hotel, you’ll find a 24 hour front desk service, bell stand, porters, concierge, heated pool, laundry and valet services. If you’ve not been to Chicago it’s a great way to start your Christmas shopping on Black Friday. Also, you’ll find five different restaurants for your dinning pleasure.
If you cannot make it to the parade it will be aired live on WGN America and WGN 9 Chicago from 8:00 am to 11:00 am. Enjoy the parade in the comfort of your home. No matter whether you can go to the parade or watch it on television it’s an enjoyable way to get the family together for quality time.