2023 Parade – Chicago Thanksgiving Parade

Category: 2023 Parade

moment [fo(r) a lillie los(t) on July 2, 2023]

by avery r young

decide(id)
to fix u a plate
of cornish hen
& dressin
wif two slice(es)
of cranberry sauce
on top
of a gravy
dat be a brown
of yo likin
& other food(s)
dat make u feel like
each mouf-full
fill(s) u up
wif dat yung luv

i’ve decide(d)
yo chair will be nex(t) to mine
amongst a table of folk
who share our face(is)
& surname

& i’ve decide(id)
to save room fo(r) sweet
potato pie

i’ve decide(id)
i will wear an essential oil
one wif wood
or africa in it
s name

den imagine
my arm(s) pullin u close(r)
so dat u
can smell de same

den dis day’s dinner
can be mo(re) moment
den memorial

den dis day’s dinner
can be
a beautiful memory
far remove(d)
from any massacre
abroad &/or domestic

i’ve decide(id)
dis day’s dinner
will be mo(re) grace
den sadness

dis day’s dinner
mo(re) madonna-lily
den stone

The Marist High School Marching Band, followed by the Teddy Turkey cold-air inflatable balloon, march down State Street during the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade.

The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade Celebrates 89 Years of Entertaining Families Across the City and Country with Marching Bands, Giant Balloons, Festive Floats, Staged Performances and Equestrian Units, All Led by Celebrity Co-Hosts Jen Lilley and Jesse Hutch

Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, November 23, 2023, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

CHICAGO, IL (Nov. 1, 2023) – The award-winning and iconic Chicago Thanksgiving Parade returns on Thursday, November 23, 2023, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. CT, traveling up Chicago’s legendary State Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street featuring the return of the beloved giant balloons. This free family tradition, now in its 89th year, joyfully showcases the best talent from across the nation, featuring the country’s top marching bands, including Tennessee State University, Minnesota State University – Mankato, and Marist High School, festive floats, staged performances, equestrian units, cultural performance troupes, and inflatables, all led by celebrity hosts and a special visitor from the North Pole—offering a celebration with jolly sights and sounds for attendees of all ages. This year’s Parade will be co-hosted by actors Jen Lilley (Days of Our Lives, B&B Merry, Paris Christmas Waltz) and Jesse Hutch (Batwoman, B&B Merry, Blessings of Christmas). There will also be special appearances by HGTV’s Lauren Makk and Chicago’s Poet Laureate avery r. young. A highlight of the 2023 parade will be performances by country music’s Reyna Roberts and Tayler Holder.

“We are absolutely thrilled to create a long-lasting memory for all generations, one that is a tradition for so many people attending and watching from home. Our Chicago Thanksgiving Parade has become through the years a vibrant event that is an integral piece of what makes our city so great and unique,” said Daniel Mulka, Executive Director of the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade Foundation.

Pluto TV will live stream this year’s parade. As a pioneer of FAST, Pluto TV’s signature style of curation, with hundreds of channels and categories programmed daily, is a known catalyst that sparked acceleration and fandom around free, ad-supported streaming television. The service curates a diverse lineup of channels, in partnership with over 400 international media companies, offering a wide array of genres, languages and categories featuring movies, television series, sports, news, lifestyle, kids and much more. Pluto TV can be easily accessed anywhere you stream – across all major mobile, web and connected TV devices.

“Pluto TV is honored to bring the parade to audiences across the country on our Pluto TV Christmas channel alongside an abundance of holiday content,” said Scott Reich, Senior Vice President of Programming at Pluto TV. “The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade provides a magical kickoff to the holiday season.”

For those seeking an extra-special experience, the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade offers VIP seating providing the best view of the Parade and the opportunity to enjoy the staged-for-TV performances right before their eyes, in addition to the forward-motion parade. Tickets for VIP access to the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade are $70 and available for purchase at www.chicagothanksgivingparade.com.

Jen Lilley expresses her excitement for hosting: “I am absolutely thrilled to be co-hosting the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade! As an ambassador for the ‘Christmas Is Not Cancelled’ non-profit, which raises funds for families across the nation to receive Christmas gifts, I’m grateful for this opportunity to help spread the word and to spread joy for families and children in need!” Jesse Hutch shares the sentiment: “I look forward to supporting the amazing people of the windy city and hosting the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade with Jen. To say that I am thankful is not only true but also fitting for the day of celebration and reflection.”

Attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators each year, the 2023 Chicago Thanksgiving Parade features an eclectic roster of festive participants from across the city and the globe, including:

Staged Live Entertainment Performances from 8-9 a.m., including American Blues Theater (Chicago, IL), avery r. young- Poet Laureate of Chicago (Chicago, IL), Ballet Folklorico Sones Mexicanos (Franklin Park, IL), Black Ensemble Theater (Chicago IL), Chicago Korean Dance Company (Rolling Medows, IL), Dong Fang Chinese Performing Arts (Chicago, IL), Huaxing Arts Group (Naperville, IL), John Vincent (Chicago, IL), Korean Performing Arts Institute of Chicago (Skokie, IL), Suktinis (Lemont, IL), Musical Theater Works (Skokie, IL), Renacer Boliviano (Chicago, IL), Reyna Roberts (La Vergne, IL), Tayler Holder (Nashville, TN), Texas State University Strutters (San Marcos, TX).
Marching Bands—an annual family favorite of the Parade programming—hail from 16 high schools and universities, including Arcadia High School (Arcadia, CA), Battery Creek High School (Beaufort, SC), Bedford High School (Temperance, MI), Bishop Noll Institute (Hammond, IN), Bloom Township District 206 (Chicago Heights, IL), Horace Mann Academy (Chicago, IL), Marist High School (Chicago, IL), Minnesota State University, Mankato (Mankato, MN), Portage High School (Portage, WI), Riverside Brookfield High School (Riverside, IL), Southland College Prep Charter High School (Richton Park, IL), Thomas Kelly College Preparatory (Chicago, IL), Thornwood High School (South Holland, IL), Thorton Fraction North High School (Calumet City, IL), Tennessee State University – “The Aristocrat of Bands”, first HCBU to play the Parade.
Specialty Units: 501st Legion Midwest Garrison. (Chicago, IL), Aloha Center Chicago (Chicago, IL), Ballet Folklorico Yolotzin (East Chicago, IN), Bloom Township High School District 206 Choir (Chicago Heights, IL), Chicago Boyz (Chicago, IL), Chicago Chinese Culture & Arts Society (Chicago, IL), Chicago Korean Dance Company (Rolling Meadows, IL), Chicago Spirit Brigade (Chicago, IL), Chicago Wheel Jam by Cirques Experience (Chicago, IL), Crystal Lake Strikers Drumline (Crystal Lake, IL), CTSHealth (Chicago, IL), Jesse White Tumbling Team (Chicago, IL), Jurassic Park Motor Pool: Midwest and Indiana Divisions (Osage, IA), Korean Performing Arts Institute of Chicago (Skokie, IL), Michigan City Soul Steppers Drill Team (Michigan City, IN), Mobile Azalea Trail Maids (Saraland, AL), Ozinga (Mokena, IL), Pro Dance Elite Studios (Algonquin, IL), Rebecca McCarthy School of Dance (Lakewood, IL), Renacer Boliviano Dance Troupe (Chicago, IL), St. Paul Winter Carnival Royal Family (Anoka, MN), Texas State University Strutters Dance Team (San Marcos, TX), Thistle & Heather Highland Dancers (Downers Grove, IL), Unicycling Society of America, Inc. (Garden City, MI), Windy City Ghostbusters (Lockport, IL), Marcedes Benz of Chicago, NASCAR.
Equestrians: Bertrand’s Miniature Horses (Watseka, IL), Herder Holiday Horses (Frankfort, IL), Miss Rodeo Illinois and Miss Teen Rodeo Illinois (Ramsey, IL), Ray of Hope Riders (Lowell, IL), Red Hats and Purple Chaps (Lafayette, IL), SOUL Harbour Ranch Animal Therapy Program (Barrington, IL).
Festive Floats: Casa de la Cultura Guatemalteca en Chicago, Mid-USA Falun Dafa Association, Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago, Santa’s Village.
Honored Guests: avery r. young- Poet Laureate of Chicago, Lauren Makk of HGTV, Miss Ilinois Jessica Tilton, Miss Illinois’ Teen Isabella Waggoner, Country Artist Reyna Roberts, and Country Artist and Actor Tayler Holder.

The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade sponsors include Atwood, CD One Price Cleaners, CTSHealth, CW26, HI Chicago, Radio 95.5 Rock, Jewel-Osco, Kinsale Contracting Group, Mercedes-Benz of Chicago, Museum of Science and Industry, NASCAR, Ozinga, Pluto TV, Raising Cane’s Santa’s Village, Setna iO, Sexual by Michel Germain Parfums, Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, Staypineapple, Washington Hall, and WorldStrides OnStage. For more information and updates about the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade, visit www.chicagothanksgivingparade.com.

ABOUT THE CHICAGO THANKSGIVING PARADE
Originally called the Christmas Caravan in the 1930s, the Parade, now in its 89th year, was created in 1934 to help lift the spirits of residents suffering through the Great Depression. Since then, it has developed into a full-scale spectacle that celebrates the holiday season. What once started as an attempt to boost Chicago’s economy, has evolved into a cherished holiday tradition for Americans across the country. Over thirteen different cultures will share their enriched traditions with Chicago’s Parade this Thanksgiving morning. The sights on State Street give the audience a chance to travel the world and embrace other traditions, all without leaving downtown Chicago. Follow Chicago’s Thanksgiving Parade on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

ABOUT PLUTO TV
Pluto TV, a Paramount Company, is the leading free streaming television service delivering hundreds of live linear channels and thousands of titles on-demand to a global audience. The Emmy ® award-winning service curates a diverse lineup of channels, in partnership with over 400 international media companies, offering a wide array of genres, languages and categories featuring movies, television series, sports, news, lifestyle, kids and much more. Pluto TV can be easily accessed and streamed across mobile, web and connected TV devices. Headquartered in Los Angeles, Pluto TV’s growing international footprint extends across four continents and over 35 markets.

PRESS CONTACT
Noreen Heron / Stacey Coakley 312.415.4204
noreen@heronagency.com

A helium-inflated Animal balloon (from The Muppets) floats over State Street during the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade

Pluto TV Partners With the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade to Stream the Iconic Event Live Across the Nation

Chicago, IL (November 1, 2023) – In an exciting new collaboration, the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade is proud to announce its partnership with Pluto TV, the leading free streaming television service. This alliance ensures that anyone in the U.S. can experience the magic of the Parade, live and for free, on Thanksgiving morning from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. CT.

Established in 1934, the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade is one of the country’s most cherished traditions. This year, the Parade promises to be more exhilarating than ever, marking the return of its high-flying helium inflatable balloons. Viewers can expect a visual treat with 18 helium balloons set to soar through Chicago’s skyline. This is just part of the three hours of free family entertainment on State Street in Downtown Chicago.

In addition to the live stream on Pluto TV Christmas channel, the Parade will also be available on demand on Pluto TV, ensuring that even those who miss the live event can join the festivities later without cost.

Phil Purevich, executive producer of the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration: “Streaming is not the future of television viewing; streaming is the here and now of television viewing. Pluto TV is the perfect home for the live national broadcast of the Parade. We are thrilled to share our Parade with Pluto TV and the rest of the country”.

“Pluto TV offers a feel-good lineup of holiday programming for the whole family, featuring movies, classic televisions series, cooking shows, and now live events with the addition of the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade,” said Scott Reich, Senior Vice President of Programming at Pluto TV. “We are honored to be a part of such an esteemed and beloved event which we know will further cement Pluto TV as a special part of many holiday celebrations.”

For more details about the Parade and how to watch it on Pluto TV, please visit https://www.chicagothanksgivingparade.com. Watch the Parade and Pluto TV’s diverse lineup of channels in partnership with hundreds of international media companies by visiting https://pluto.tv/.

ABOUT THE CHICAGO THANKSGIVING PARADE

Originally called the Christmas Caravan in 1934, the Parade was created to help lift the spirits of residents suffering through the Great Depression. Since then, it has developed into a full-scale spectacle celebrating the holiday season and is a cherished holiday tradition for Americans nationwide. Over sixteen cultures will share their traditions with the nation this Thanksgiving morning. The sights on State Street allow the audience to travel the world without leaving downtown Chicago. Get more information about the Parade at chicagothanksgivingparade.com.

ABOUT PLUTO TV

Pluto TV, a Paramount Company, is the leading free streaming television service delivering hundreds of live linear channels and thousands of titles on-demand to a global audience. The Emmy ® award-winning service curates a diverse lineup of channels, in partnership with over 400 international media companies, offering a wide array of genres, languages and categories featuring movies, television series, sports, news, lifestyle, kids and much more. Pluto TV can be easily accessed and streamed across mobile, web and connected TV devices. Headquartered in Los Angeles, Pluto TV’s growing international footprint extends across four continents and over 35 markets

The Texas State Strutters: A Dazzling Legacy on Display this Thanksgiving

The Texas State Strutters, the premier dance team of Texas State University, have a rich history that has spanned over six decades since its foundation in 1960. Renowned as the first dance team ever established at a major university campus in Texas, the Strutters have achieved milestones that are unparalleled.

Pioneering the Way

Founded by the legendary Mrs. Barbara Guinn Tidwell in 1960, the Strutters instantly captured the spotlight. Their establishment was groundbreaking, marking them as the first precision dance team at a four-year university. The team now stands as the largest of its kind in the nation.

Worldwide Performances

The Strutters’ impressive track record includes performances in over 26 countries across four continents. One of their remarkable achievements was being the first U.S. dance team to perform in the People’s Republic of China. Their repertoire also includes appearances at three Presidential Inaugural Parades, numerous performances at NFL & NBA halftime shows, and stellar acts at major events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Cinematic and Television Appearances

Their star-studded performances haven’t been limited to the stage alone. They have been featured in five movies, commercials for big brands like Coca-Cola, and even showcased their talent on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent.”

Legacy of Leaders

The legacy initiated by Mrs. Tidwell has been carried on by a succession of talented leaders. Mrs. Tidwell’s 37-year tenure was succeeded by former Strutter Captains like Mrs. Susan Angell-Gonzalez and Tammy Fife, leading up to the present-day director, another ex-Strutter, Selina Flores.

More Than Just Dance

However, their legacy isn’t just about dance. The organization also places a significant emphasis on personal development. They foster communication skills, character, and confidence in young women. Through annual camps and competitions, Strutters serve as role models to high school dance team members, spreading their influence across Texas and even as far as Hawaii.

A Deep-rooted Alumni Network

The Strutters have a thriving alumni network, “Strutters Always,” which facilitates communication between past members while also supporting the present Strutter organization.

Remembering Barbara Guinn Tidwell

Mrs. Barbara Tidwell’s passing in May 2022 marked the end of an era. However, her memory and legacy live on through every performance, every formation, and every “Strutter Yell.” Her vision and dedication have imprinted an indelible mark not just on Texas State University but on the entire world of dance. She is remembered for her innovative spirit, resilience, and the exemplary standard she set for generations of Strutters.

This year, the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade will be illuminated by their presence. As a showcase of various talents, the parade offers a unique platform for groups like the Strutters to captivate a wider audience. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to their artistry, the parade promises an unforgettable spectacle. The emphasis is clear: you won’t want to miss the Texas State University Strutters as they take the stage, or in this case, State Street in Chicago.

Sources

The Chicago Spirit Brigade: Spreading the Cheer and Making a Difference

Whenever you hear a cheer rise from the heart of Chicago, chances are it’s the incredible Chicago Spirit Brigade, spreading joy, cheer, and, most importantly, hope to the community.

Dance, Drill, and Charity – A Unique Combination

Born from the passion of just four pioneering individuals, the Chicago Spirit Brigade (CSB) now boasts a vibrant troupe of over 35 volunteer performers, ranging in age from 21 to 50+. These performers come from all walks of life, representing the rich tapestry that is America.

Their purpose? To raise both money and awareness for non-profit organizations that directly assist those living with life-altering challenges. They do this through breathtaking performances, fusing dance, drill, and cheer into an entertaining package that’s hard to resist. Over the past 20 years, CSB, a proud 501(c)3 non-profit, has raised more than $100,000, assisting over 30 Chicagoland and regional non-profits. Their dedication to giving is evident – every penny collected at their performances goes directly to the chosen beneficiary, with CSB retaining nothing.

Cheer for a Cause

A distinctive feature of CSB is their red “Spirit Buckets.” At the end of each riveting performance, these buckets are passed through the crowds, collecting donations. True to their spirit of giving, every dollar collected is directly handed to the designated beneficiary for that event. CSB’s generosity doesn’t end there. They boost the collected amount with a 25% match from their ‘Spread the Cheer fund’, effectively donating 125% of the collected sum.

Making an Impact in the LGBTQ Community and Beyond

CSB’s influence goes beyond general community work. As a part of the Pride cheer association, they specifically focus on supporting individuals with life-challenging conditions within the LGBTQ community.

Join the Cheer Revolution

Were you ever a cheerleader, or perhaps dreamt of becoming one? The Chicago Spirit Brigade offers you that chance, holding open auditions for enthusiastic individuals to join their ranks. As an all-volunteer adult cheerleading, dance, and drill team, CSB is renowned for their performances at key events like Andersonville Midsommarfest and the Chicago Pride Parade. Every performance is not just an act, but a fundraising opportunity for a noble cause.

In Conclusion: Embrace the Spirit

The Chicago Spirit Brigade believes that life’s moments, big or small, are meant for celebration. With a mission rooted in compassion and a performance bursting with energy, they ensure that every dance, cheer, and twirl amplifies their core message of unity, support, and giving back.

So, if you find yourself in the Windy City, especially during events like the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade, keep your eyes peeled for the electrifying performances of CSB. And remember, behind those energetic moves lies a heart that beats for charity.

Join Them in Making a Difference

Catch them live in action and witness firsthand the magic they bring to the streets of Chicago. For those inspired by their message and wanting to know more, delve deeper into their journey by visiting https://www.chicagospiritbrigade.org/.

Together, let’s “Spread the Cheer” with the Chicago Spirit Brigade, especially during this year’s Chicago Thanksgiving Parade!

Sources

https://www.chicagospiritbrigade.org/about

Chicago Spirit Brigade Still Sassy

https://www.timeout.com/chicago/blog/bring-it-on-at-open-auditions-for-the-chicago-spirit-brigade-083117

Performance of The Jackie Wilson Story by the Black Ensemble Theater

Black Ensemble Theater: A Chicago Treasure in the Thanksgiving Parade

This year, as you tune in to the iconic Chicago Thanksgiving Parade, you’re in for a stellar treat. Making its vibrant appearance will be none other than the renowned Black Ensemble Theater (BET), a cornerstone of Chicago’s arts scene.

Founded in 1976 by the remarkable Jackie Taylor, a dynamo actress, producer, playwright, and more, BET isn’t your run-of-the-mill theater group. With a mission to eradicate racism through the magic of theater arts, this group has consistently offered the city enthralling original musicals and transformative educational outreach programs. From the days of its inception, Taylor’s dream was grand: to “create a theatre that would destroy racism.” Ambitious? Certainly. Impossible? Not for Jackie Taylor.

Wide shot of Black Ensemble Theatre performers in front of a band.

Up-close of a singer during Black Ensemble Theater's performance of Dynamite Divas"

BET has garnered international acclaim, evolving from a small community arts group to an institution that’s undeniably monumental in its impact. Housed since 2011 in the diverse Uptown neighborhood, the theatre has continuously offered up some unparalleled productions like “The Jackie Wilson Story” and “The Other Cinderella.” If you’re nodding along, reminiscing about that sold-out run at the Apollo Theater in New York, you know exactly the kind of magic we’re talking about.

The theater’s commitment to fostering the arts doesn’t stop at their mainstage productions. They’ve launched an array of successful outreach programs targeting low-income, underserved communities, aiming to reinforce the value of education, empowerment, and artistic expression. The Black Playwrights Initiative (BPI), for instance, has since 2004 been a pivotal platform for aspiring writers to develop scripts that resonate with the heart and soul of Chicago and beyond.

Jackie Taylor, with her infectious energy, has worn many hats: writer, director, mentor, and more. Her roots, originating from the Cabrini-Green housing project, give her an authentic connection to Chicago’s soul. And while she’s dipped her toes in films like “Cooley High,” “Hoodlum,” and others, her heart’s true calling has always been the Chicago theater.

The BET, under Taylor’s leadership, has celebrated the lives of iconic Black performers, presenting their stories as captivating musicals. From “The Jackie Wilson Story” to the recent hit tribute to Earth, Wind & Fire, BET ensures that audiences are entertained, educated, and profoundly moved.

What’s even more delightful? Post-show, you might just catch Jackie Taylor in the lobby, greeting patrons with warmth, sharing stories, and, in her words, making the theater experience “just like going to church.” There’s no denying that her spirit is the heartbeat of BET. As Chris Jones (theater critic) aptly puts it, “There’s only one Jackie Taylor and she’s a real treasure in this city.”

So, here’s our call to action: Tune into the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade to witness the captivating acts of the Black Ensemble Theater, among others. And to immerse yourself further into the rich tapestry of BET’s history, stories, and upcoming events, make sure you head over to https://blackensembletheater.org/. Dive deep, discover more, and be enchanted by the magic that is Black Ensemble Theater.

Sources

https://blackensembletheater.org/about-be/
https://www.chipublib.org/fa-black-ensemble-theater-company-records/
https://abc7chicago.com/black-ensemble-theater-chicago-jackie-taylor-musicals/13095861/

The Tennessee State University Marching Band sitting in the stands of their stadium. The color guard is in the foreground, with the band in the back.

Marching into History: Tennessee State University Band First HBCU to Participate at the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade

Known as ‘The Aristocrat of Bands’ and ‘The Band of Firsts,’ the Tennessee State University Marching Band holds a remarkable place in the annals of American music. This year, they’re set to make waves yet again as the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching band to perform at the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade.

Tennessee State University, an esteemed HBCU based in Nashville, Tennessee, has been a beacon of educational excellence since its founding in 1912. Home to numerous notable academic and research centers and boasting illustrious alumni like Oprah Winfrey, TSU’s tradition of excellence extends to its marching band.

Born out of an idea by Dr. Walter S. Davis, TSU’s second president, in 1946, the band swiftly blossomed under the stewardship of its first director, J.D. Chavis. A mere six weeks after inception, a 100-piece marching band proudly took to the TSU field, marking the beginning of an extraordinary journey.

From halftime shows at football games to appearances at the Washington Classic, the band, under Chavis and later Frank T. Greer, continually raised the bar. A milestone moment came four years into Greer’s tenure when TSU was invited to play halftime at a Chicago Bears vs. LA Rams game—the first-ever national television appearance by a historically black university band.

Over the years, the band has graced national television with nine halftime shows between 1956 and 1978, even earning the moniker ‘The Aristocrat of Bands’ from a sportscaster—an appellation that has remained.

Their journey of ‘firsts’ took them through memorable years such as 1961, TSU’s band was invited to President John F. Kennedy’s inaugural parade, another pioneering moment for a historically black university. They repeated this honor at President Bill Clinton’s inaugural parades in 1993 and 1997. More recently, in 2016, they became the first band to play on the White House lawn during the celebration of the opening of the National Museum of African American History & Culture.

The baton of leadership now resides with Dr. Reginald Adrian McDonald, who has brought his comprehensive understanding of music and his broad experience as an educator to the storied history of the ‘Aristocrat of Bands.’ Raised in Atlanta, Dr. McDonald has enriched the Tennessee State University Marching Band with the same passion and expertise that earned his previous bands a ten-year streak of superior ratings at various music competitions in Georgia. This dedication to excellence also led to numerous prestigious performances, including during President Bush’s visit to the Atlanta Fernbank Museum. A four-time ‘Teacher of the Year’ honoree, Dr. McDonald is not just a maestro of music, but an inspiring mentor who continually propels the band to new heights of musical mastery and historic firsts.

With each performance by the Tennessee State University Marching Band, you’re not just witnessing a musical spectacle but a moment of history. Their commitment to excellence continues to blaze a trail, ensuring that each appearance is not just an accomplishment but a memorable experience.

Don’t miss the chance to see them in action during this year’s Chicago Thanksgiving Parade. Discover more about ‘The Aristocrat of Bands’ and their illustrious history by visiting their website at https://aristocratofbands.com/.”

Directors, does you band have what it takes to take the national stage? Apply now to be part of the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade! The 2023 application deadline has been extended for marching bands and horse units, click here to find out more. We are also accepting applications for the 2024 Parade as well.

Several members (and their horses) of the Red Hats and Purple Chaps Equestrian Group marching in the 2016 Chicago Thanksgiving Parade. The ladies are adorned with red hats and purple coats.

Riding in Style: The Red Hats and Purple Chaps

You’ve likely heard of the Red Hat Society, an international social group known for giving women a playful ‘recess’ from the humdrum of everyday life. Ever since it took flight in 1998, the society has been growing strong and now proudly boasts over 20,000 members. At events, you will see ladies in their 50s and beyond donning red hats, while their younger counterparts rock pink ones.

Coming all the way from Indiana is a special chapter of the Red Hat Society—the Red Hats and Purple Chaps—the first equestrian chapter in the Society’s history. These cowgirls debuted at the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade in 2012 and have since been turning heads. Their website keeps it delightfully straightforward; “We camp, trail ride, parade the small towns, and parade the really, really big ones.“

These wonderful ladies rally together to tackle women’s and equine issues head-on, spur each other on in horsemanship, share laughs, and above all, strive to foster an active, healthy lifestyle. They’re committed to making a positive impact in their communities, one gallop at a time.

They’re seasoned riders in the parade circuit, having participated in the Kentucky Derby Pegasus Parade, Georgetown Festival of the Horse, and the Mexican Independence Day Parade in Chicago—to name a few.

“I have never had another parade move my spirit as much as Chicago does!” stated Rita Hilt, spokesperson for the Ret Hats and Purple Chaps. “Getting to see the city from horseback, looking up between the high-rise buildings, waving to the folks in the upper rooms with views of the street, just is amazing.”

The group goes through a lot of pre-parade preparation for events like the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade, including having clinics for the ladies and their horses to get used to typical things that they could encounter. Loud noises, balloons, street lines, and sirens aren’t typical in the life of an equine, and their training helps to ensure their horses are exposed to as many different scenarios as possible. The clinics not only are for the horse, but for the riders as well. The ladies become prepared to handle any situation that could arise.

The Red Hats and Purple Chaps all try to carpool to the parade route, with some of the riders driving from Southern Indiana. They have the system down to an art, arriving at 6am, unloading the trailers, prep, decorate, get mounted up and be ready all in the span of about an hour. Then the trailers head to the end of the route to await the team upon the conclusion of the ride.

Hilt continues, “I know our group is very thankful to be able to ride this parade in Chicago. While several of us aren’t spending the morning with our own families, we are sharing the love for our horses and getting to show folks that even the “elders” of the equine community are still able to get out there and enjoy things! There is nothing more rewarding than seeing the spectator’s eyes light up when they spot us and our glittered hooves come walking past! We are looking forward to November!”

Trot over to their website at https://www.rhpc-in.org/ and discover more about the Red Hats and Purple Chaps! Believe us when we say, you’re in for a ride!

Is your performance group looking to showcase itself in front of millions? Click here to find out more about applying to perform in the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade. The deadline for marching bands and equestrian units has been extended for 2023, and applications are now open for all groups in 2024.

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