Chicago Labor Day Parade returns to SE Side for 1st time since 2022

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Chicago Labor Day Parade returns to the city's Southeast Side for the first time since 2022 as many celebrate the unofficial end of summer.

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The parade steps off Saturday morning from 112th and Ewing at 11 a.m.

Eddie Fest follows the parade, which is a celebration of workers, unions and the Chicago Labor Movement. It'll feature live music, food, vendors, and activities for all ages.

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Because of the Labor Day events, neighborhood festivals, and concerts, city officials are laser focused on making sure one of Chicago's busiest weekends stay safe.

Historically, holiday weekends see significant spikes and water related incidents.

The U.S. Coast Guard plans on conducting safety checks and stepping up patrols targeting illegal charter operations.

Chicago police will continue its crackdowns on drunk and reckless boating operations as safety advocates encourage the use of life jackets while on the water.

City leaders say additional police officers and other public safety resources will be deployed throughout the holiday weekend as the city's emergency management office and other agencies coordinate security across Chicago.