CHICAGO — This June, Chicago bursts into color with the return of its 54th Annual Pride Parade, a hallmark event celebrating the city’s LGBTQ+ community with performances, pet parades, a rainbow train, and an energy of unity.
Slated to begin at 11 a.m. on Sunday, June 29, the parade embraces the theme “United in Pride” — a call for resilience and collective celebration amid evolving challenges for the LGBTQ+ population.
‘United In Pride’: Parade to Spotlight Visibility and Strength
The Chicago Pride Parade, first launched more than 50 years ago, continues to serve as a powerful symbol of advocacy and joy. Parade co-coordinator Tim Frye stated that the event remains a “platform for visibility, advocacy, and celebration.”
“In 2025, we celebrate not just how far we’ve come, but the strength we have when we stand together,” Frye said in a statement to ABC 7 Chicago.
The route kicks off near Grace Street and Broadway, winding through the city in a grand procession of support, diversity, and inclusivity.
Chicago Pride Fest Features Live Music, Drag Shows and Pet Parade
Leading up to the parade, Chicago Pride Fest 2025 is taking place June 21–22 in Northalsted, famously known as Boystown. As CBS News Chicago reports, this popular street festival stretches along Halsted Street, offering:
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Three live stages
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Performances by Jesse McCartney, Deborah Cox, and Aluna
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A “Best of Chicago” drag show
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The Proud Pet Parade, featuring LGBTQ+-themed pet costumes
Admission is free, though organizers encourage a $20 suggested donation to support local artists and LGBTQ+ initiatives.
CTA’s Pride Train Hits the Tracks Again
Even public transportation is getting in on the celebration. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) unveiled its 2025 Pride Train — a special Red Line train wrapped in rainbow colors and LGBTQ+ affirmations.
“The Pride Train is a visible commitment to diversity, visibility, inclusion and love,” said Nora Leerhsen, CTA’s acting president, according to CBS News Chicago.
The train runs throughout June, offering daily reminders of inclusivity to commuters citywide.
White Sox Host Pride Night With Free Merch
For sports fans, Pride at the Park returned to Guaranteed Rate Field on June 18, when the White Sox faced off against the Cardinals. Every ticket purchased included a free White Sox Pride Night hat, showcasing how professional sports are embracing LGBTQ+ pride.
The combination of sports, art, music, and transportation underlines how deeply the city integrates its celebration into every corner of life.
Are you attending any Pride Month events in Chicago? Share your experiences or photos in the comments section on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com and help us spotlight voices from the LGBTQ+ community.
