CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Another sign Chicago is returning to normal: The largest black parade in the world and the second largest parade in the country, the Bud Billiken Parade, is returning this summer.
The back-to-school parade on Chicago’s South Side that started in 1929, and was called off last year because of the pandemic, will look a little different this year.
It will be abbreviated, and depending on COVID-19 restrictions, there could be other changes.
The 92nd annual Bud Billiken Parade, put on by Chicago Defender Charities, is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 14 in Washington Park on Elsworth Drive between 51st and 55th Streets.
The theme for this year's parade is “Back to School, Back to Life, Back to Bud Billiken.” It will pay homage to tradition while embracing contemporary culture and talent.
The Bud Billiken Parade will run in conjunction with the traditional family festival in Washington Park, located next to Dyett High School. The family friendly back-to-school event will have food, activities for all ages, entertainment plus tons of giveaways for student participants.
“There have been nine decades of youth empowerment and nearly a century of traditions that instill the values of education, heritage and community. After coming together for over 90 years at the Bud Billiken Parade, I am immensely grateful to have another parade,” said Myiti Sengstacke-Rice, President/CEO of the parade and the Chicago Defender Charities.
Organizers said a full parade is planned for 2022.
Related
