The city of Chicago in the US is perhaps the busiest when the Thanksgiving holiday approaches. Thanksgiving which is most popular in America, is a family holiday that is celebrated just before Christmas. It is a tradition that has come down from the earliest settlers to land in the new world as it was then known. Today, Thanksgiving is about revisiting forgotten family ties and being thankful for the goodness in one’s life.
In Chicago celebrating Thanksgiving takes on a completely new meaning. Festivities begin two weeks prior to the actual day, with American football games, parties, discount sales and theatre events. There are many Thanksgiving events to look forward to and to kick off the celebrations is the Thanksgiving Parade by McDonalds.
The parade which takes place in downtown Chicago, takes place towards the middle of November. The parade lasts for about 8 hours in the morning and has a huge retinue that goes through the streets. It includes a marching band, various themed floats, entertainers dressed in festive outfits and huge balloons with helium. The parade winds up at State Street, and is put together by the Chicago Association of Festivals each year.
For visitors in the mood for a party, then the one hosted at the Chicago Park District will be a real crowd pleaser. This annual Thanksgiving party usually takes place a week in advance and provides the perfect opportunity to get together with loved ones. The venue for the party is the Jackie Robinson Park, and even smaller members of the family will enjoy the event with the activities set out.
Another option for Thanksgiving celebrations includes a variety show that is an event for the whole family. The Piotrowski Park is the venue for this show and the line up comprises of comedies and musical performances, not forgetting the various holiday themed dramas to keep residents occupied for hours.
And last but not least the Turkey Shoot each year at Davis Square Park is a traditional event that is popular among locals. American football fanatics usually head down for the event which takes place in the field. This free event goes on from about 10.am in the morning and finishes off by noon on Thanksgiving Day itself. Families usually attend it prior to enjoying their main Thanksgiving meal.
The spirit of Thanksgiving is undeniably every where and for new comers to the city some local hospitality at a downtown Chicago hotel during this festival is a good way to become acquainted with the local customs. A Chicago hotel such as the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel Chicago will ensure that guests feel right at home and are welcomed in the spirit of the season.
