The heart of downtown Chicago pulsed with vibrant rhythms and colorful displays as the Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago (PCS) took center stage in the city’s 90th Thanksgiving Day Parade. On a brisk November morning, the PCS showcased its rich heritage with a dazzling float, the energetic Ashke Bhangra Club, renowned Punjabi Dholi Manmeet Singh, and the lively beats of DJ Miss Bhalla, turning State Street into a lively hub of Punjabi Bhangra music.
Kicking off at 8 AM on Ida B. Wells Drive, the parade journeyed through the bustling Chicago Loop, culminating at Lake Street around 11 AM. The event featured over 100 diverse units, including 20 school marching bands from across the nation, five majestic equestrian units, festive floats, dancers, singers, balloons, and specialty groups from Illinois and beyond. Even Santa Claus made a jolly appearance, adding to the festive spirit.
This annual parade is celebrated for its multicultural focus, providing a platform to honor and share the diverse cultures that make up Chicago’s vibrant community. Spectators on State Street were treated to a global tapestry of traditions, fostering unity and appreciation among the diverse audience without ever leaving the downtown area.
Broadcast as the second-biggest televised parade on Thanksgiving in the United States, the Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade drew hundreds of thousands of spectators despite the chilly Windy City weather. Many bundled up early to secure prime viewing spots, while thousands more tuned in via cell phones and live streams on Pluto TV, reaching audiences nationwide.
PCS President Manjeet Singh Bhalla, who participated with his wife and daughter, highlighted the significance of their involvement. “Participation in this parade has been an annual tradition with PCS since 2005. It helps us create awareness about our community and culture in the mainstream,” Bhalla stated.
The PCS float, themed around gratitude, paid homage to the global farmers who cultivate the food that sustains the world. Rajinder Bir Singh Mago, PCS Board of Governors and parade coordinator, emphasized the theme’s importance. “Thanksgiving is a day to show gratitude, and our float reflects our appreciation for the farmers worldwide,” Mago explained.
Adding to the spectacle, the young Bhangra team, coached by Navjodh Singh Bajwa and supported by the performers’ parents, delivered an electrifying performance. Their colorful costumes and dynamic moves captivated the crowd, earning continuous applause along the parade route.
Navtej Singh Sohi, Vice President of PCS, underscored the organization’s commitment to cultural celebration and community integration. “PCS participation in this parade gives our community and culture great exposure in the mainstream, and it shows our commitment to celebrate the American festivals, in solidarity with all Americans,” Sohi remarked.
This year’s parade also featured special guests, including Emmy-winning actress Lynn Whitfield, known for her role in The Josephine Baker Story (1991) and the current hit series The Chi. The festivities were hosted by Rock 95.5 personalities Angi Taylor and Maria Palmer, adding star power to the event.
The Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade, originally launched in 1934 as the “Christmas Caravan” to uplift spirits during the Great Depression, has evolved into a cherished tradition. Televised nationally since 2007, the parade continues to bring joy and a sense of community to millions each year. Produced by the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the event remains a testament to Chicago’s enduring spirit of diversity and unity.
As the final floats passed Lake Street and the last beats of Bhangra echoed through the streets, it was clear that the Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago had left an indelible mark on this landmark celebration, embodying the true essence of gratitude and cultural pride.
