The annual Mexican Independence Day parade on 26th Street in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood is fast approaching, as is a new two-day “El Grito” festival in Grant Park.
Chicago’s Mexican Independence Day parade is one of the largest in the Midwest, according to organizers, drawing more than 400,000 participants and spectators to the heart of Little Village. For its 53rd year in 2024, the theme will be “Celebrando Nuestras Tradiciones,” officials said.
Both the long-running parade and the new festival are expected to be accompanied by street closures, caravans and traffic delays, as has been the case in previous years.
As the events approach, here’s what you need to know about each one.
Mexican Independence Day Parade
The annual parade, considered one of the largest in the Midwest, will begin at noon on Sunday, Sept. 15, according to organizers. About 400,000 people are expected to attend, either as participants or spectators.
“Expect a vibrant spectacle as parade participants showcase a range of traditions from diverse regions and cultures,” the event description reads. “From the elegance of quinceañeras to the captivating rhythms of Mexican folk dancing and the skillful art of the charrería, the parade will be a kaleidoscope of experiences, showcasing the essence and diversity of Mexican heritage in Chicago and across the United States.”
Parade route
The parade will begin in Little Village at the historic Little Village Arch at 26th Street and Albany. The route will continue along 26th Street to Kostner Avenue, organizers said. Here is a map of the full Mexican Independence Day route.
Parking Restrictions
Parking restrictions are expected to be in place along the parade route, organizers said. In surrounding areas, parking will not be allowed from 4 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
“Access roads to the parade route will be blocked,” organizers said. “Parking is limited and road closures will make access to the route very difficult.”
The best place to watch the parade
Organizers stressed that spectators should arrive early.
“However, the traditional Mexican sense of happiness and celebration will be present wherever you are,” organizers said.
Popular areas along the route include 26th Street between Pulaski and Kostner avenues, organizers said, adding that spectators won’t be able to see much of California Avenue and California Boulevard because that area will be closed for the installation.
Watch the parade live
Mexican Independence Day in Chicago will be broadcast live from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Telemundo Chicago, NBC Chicago’s streaming channel, on Telemundo.com, NBCCHicago.com and on the Telemundo and NBC Chicago apps. The broadcast will continue until 1:30 p.m. on the NBC Chicago streaming channel, as well as on the NBC Chicago and Telemundo websites and apps.
El Grito Festival
“El Grito,” a new two-day festival in Grant Park, will join Chicago’s Mexican Independence Day celebrations this year.
“This marks a significant moment for the city and its thriving Mexican community, as it is the first time in more than a decade that this iconic celebration has taken place in downtown Chicago,” organizers said.
The festival will feature national and local musicians including mariachis, authentic Mexican family dining experiences and more. It will take place from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, September 14 and Sunday, September 15 in Grant Park.
Tickets
El Grito is a ticketed event, with single-day tickets starting at $10, according to organizers.
Admission to the Grito ceremony on September 15 is free, but registration is required, organizers said, and a waiting list has already formed. Those who attend will have access to the festival from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday.
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