The Bud Billiken Parade, an iconic Chicago tradition centered on celebrating youth, education, and African American culture, took place on Saturday, August 9, 2025, marking its 96th year. This grand event, known as the largest African American parade in the nation, energized the South Side with music, dance, community pride, and back-to-school enthusiasm.
The parade kicked off promptly at 10 a.m. from the intersection of 39th Street and Martin Luther King Drive in the Bronzeville neighborhood, stretching south along King Drive to 55th Street in Washington Park. This nearly three-mile route attracted hundreds of thousands of spectators who came to witness a vibrant procession showcasing Chicago’s talented youth through marching bands, floats, dance troupes, drill teams, gymnasts, and cheer squads.
The theme for this year’s parade, “Road to 100 Years,” honored the nearly century-long legacy of cultural pride, educational advocacy, and unity that the Bud Billiken Parade has represented since its founding in 1929. Established by Robert Sengstacke Abbott, publisher of the Chicago Defender, the parade began as a celebration of African American life and a back-to-school tradition that continues to empower and uplift the community.
Notable figures added to the event’s splendor, with LaRoyce Hawkins, known for his role as Kevin At on NBC’s “Chicago.D.,” serving as Grand Marshal. Honorary grand marshals included influential leaders in education, health, and culture, reinforcing the parade’s commitment to community growth and youth empowerment.
The parade was broadcast live from 10 a.m. to noon on ABC7 Chicago, allowing city-wide and virtual audiences to experience the festivities. Following the procession, Washington Park hosted a Back to School Festival until 4 p.m., featuring family-friendly activities, giveaways, food, and entertainment designed to prepare students and families for the upcoming school year starting on August 18 for Chicago Public Schools.
Organizers coordinated with local emergency and public safety teams to ensure a secure environment, with police, fire, and emergency management teams present throughout the event.
The Bud Billiken Parade remains a hallmark of Chicago’s cultural calendar, blending celebration and education while honoring African American history and achievements. The parade’s emphasis on youth shines through each year, inspiring young people and reminding the community of the importance of education and unity.
Key points about the 2025 Bud Billiken Parade:
- Date & Time: Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Location: March from 39th Street & Martin Luther King Drive to 55th Street, Bronzeville to Washington Park
- Theme: “Road to 100 Years”
- Grand Marshal: LaRoyce Hawkins
- Broadcast: Live on ABC7 Chicago and streaming on abc7chicago.com
- Back to School Festival: Family activities, giveaways, and food at Washington Park
- Attendance: Hundreds of thousands from Chicago and beyond
As the city looks forward to the 100th anniversary in a few years, the Bud Billiken Parade continues to be a vital tradition that not only marks the end of summer but also champions education, community spirit, and African American heritage.
If you experienced the excitement of this year’s Bud Billiken Parade or have memories to share from past celebrations, we invite you to join the conversation below. Stay tuned for next year’s event and celebrate with us as we continue the legacy of “Road to 100 Years.”