CHICAGO — The 2025 Chicago Pride Parade capped off June’s LGBTQ+ Pride Month with record attendance, vibrant celebration, and unwavering joy — even as high heat and passing rain tried to slow things down.
With the theme “United in Pride,” this year’s parade attracted more than 800,000 people to Chicago’s North Side, where bold colors, dazzling floats, and nonstop energy transformed the streets into a moving tribute to love, resilience, and freedom.
A Joyful Crowd, A Month in the Making
Spectators from across the country packed into the parade route to cheer on more than 150 participating groups, including LGBTQ+ organizations, corporate sponsors, and local performers.
“Everybody’s smiling, everybody’s so happy,” said Brittney Lincoln, who came in from Seattle for the parade.
Even the intense summer sun couldn’t dim the mood. “It rained for a second, but the sun came back for us,” Lincoln added.
Visitors Say Chicago Pride Hits Different
Many paradegoers flew in from around the country. Pamela, another visitor from Seattle, said she found something unique about Chicago’s spirit.
“There’s such a different energy in the Midwest,” she said, noting the diverse range of groups represented.
Tim Frye, the 2025 co-coordinator, reminded attendees that Chicago has deep historical ties to Pride: “What most people don’t realize is Chicago was the first place to have a march out of anywhere in the world.”
From First-Timers to Lifelong Marchers
While some were attending for the first time, others like Eric Smith have been coming to the Chicago Pride Parade for decades.
“I’ve been coming since 1977,” Smith shared. “And I love it. Each year it gets better and better.”
Many echoed how important it felt to show up in today’s political climate. “I grew up knowing I was loved no matter what… but being here, it means that love wins,” said Anna Howell.
Parade Ends, But Pride Carries On
The 2025 event not only honored the legacy of the Stonewall Riots, but also spotlighted the ongoing need for unity, especially in times of social tension.
“Pride is all about different families blending together,” said Hadley Rue.
“I’ve never walked the parade before, and this is a perfect time to do it,” said Oscar, one of the many first-timers.
As the festivities wrapped, excitement was already building for the 2026 parade — the 55th anniversary of Pride in Chicago.
You can read more from the FOX 32 Chicago coverage of the 2025 Pride Parade.
What did you think of this year’s Pride Parade in Chicago? Drop your experience or photos in the comments at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
