Chicago DNC 2024 security fences coming down, streets reopening as officials celebrate success

Thousands marched on the Democratic National Convention Wednesday night.

Several groups were involved in an unpermitted but predominantly peaceful pro-Palestinian rally, which started at Union Park.

It was organized by the Chicago Coalition for Justice in Palestine.

The loud and spirited march stepped off shortly before 6 p.m. along a designated route.

The group planned to travel to Park 578 near the United Center, where the DNC is taking place, but was turned away.

The protesters eventually returned to Union Park.

There was a heavy Chicago police presence throughout.

There were a few moments of tension, including a couple of firecrackers thrown at officers.

At least two people appeared to almost be detained before being released again by police.

Protesters are calling for an end to the war in Gaza and for the U.S. to stop sending military aid to Israel.

Oprah Winfrey will be on stage at the Democratic National Convention on Wednesday night, multiple sources familiar with the program confirmed to ABC News.

CNN first reported the development.

The group of pro-Palestinian protesters who gathered in Union Park are now on the move.

They began marching shortly before 6 p.m., following the route designed by CPD for protests between Union Park and Park 578. It's the same route used by protesters Monday, but unlike that rally, this protest does not have permits for marching or to be in Park 578, police said.

There is a large police presence along the route and with the protesters. There are also rolling street closures in the area.

Several groups are involved in an unpermitted pro-Palestinian rally Wednesday afternoon, starting at Union Park.

It's being organized by the Chicago Coalition for Justice in Palestine.

A march is also expected to Park 578 near the United Center, where the DNC is taking place.

On Monday, some protesters breached an outer perimeter fence near the DNC.

As of about 4 p.m., several hundred had gathered peacefully in the area, as speeches were heard.

A Union Park protest is expected to march toward the DNC Wednesday.

They're calling for an end to the war in Gaza and for the U.S. to stop sending military aid to Israel.

One organizer Wednesday said they do not expect any violence.

"Our whole point is to end hate and end violence, and anyone who's coming with intention to do that is not part of us. We are here peacefully protesting; we've been doing it for 10 months, and we've been doing it for years. We don't stand for that," said Amira Daoud, with American Muslims for Palestine.

The Chicago Jewish Alliance is expected to share their message at Park 578 Wednesday afternoon, as well.