Join us for the 97th Annual Bud Billiken® Parade & Back-to-School Festival, the nation's largest African American parade and one of Chicago's most celebrated community traditions!

The day begins with the iconic Bud Billiken® Parade, stepping off at 10:00 AM from 39th Street & King Drive and traveling south along King Drive to 51st Street. At the conclusion of the parade, the celebration continues at the Bud Billiken® Back-to-School Festival in Washington Park, where thousands of families gather for a full day of entertainment, resources, and community engagement.

Festival Highlights
🎒 Free school supplies (while supplies last)
💇🏾‍♀️ Free haircuts and hairstyling
🎓 College admissions and education resources
💼 Workforce & Job Fair Pavilion
🩺 Health and wellness resources
🤝 Community organization exhibits
🎪 Sponsor & vendor activations
🍴 Food vendors and family-friendly activities
🎶 Live performances featuring local artists and the Bud Billiken Performing Arts League (PAL)

Whether you're cheering on the parade, enjoying the festival, or preparing your family for the new school year, there's something for everyone.

Event Details

Saturday, August 8, 2026

🕙 Parade: 10:00 AM
📍 Parade Route: 39th Street & King Drive to 51st Street

🎉 Back-to-School Festival: Immediately following the parade until 4:00 PM
📍 Washington Park, Chicago

Celebrate community, culture, education, and the Road to 100 with us as we continue a legacy that has inspired generations for nearly a century.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic community event that truly embodies the spirit of "Back 2 School". We look forward to seeing you there!

Stay Connected & Spread the Word!

Follow us on social media for event updates and behind-the-scenes highlights:
📲 @BudBillikenParade | @BronzevilleLife

🌐 Visit our websites:

budbillikenparade.org
chicagodefendercharities.org
bronzevillelife.com

✨ Looking ahead? Join us for the 96th Annual Bud Billiken Parade & Festival on August 8, 2026!