What to know about security measures and more ahead of Chicago Pride Parade 2026

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Celebrations for Pride will reach their peak this weekend with the return of the annual Chicago Pride Parade.

Barriers were already being set up along the parade route Saturday, and safety plans are in place for Sunday's big event.

Pride celebrations across Chicago brought together LGBTQ+ community members and supporters this weekend, with neighborhood events and large gatherings emphasizing visibility, inclusion, and safety.

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The parade draws hundreds of thousands of people each year to celebrate inclusion and the LGBTQ+ community.

Hundreds of thousands of people will line the streets for Chicago's 55th annual Pride Parade. And along with the colorful floats, marching bands and performances, there will be an emphasis on security to make sure the celebration remains safe.

Officials with the Chicago Police Department, the Office of Emergency Management and Communications, and parade organizers have been working for months to ensure the popular event remains safe and welcoming.

Safety is a top priority for Chicago police, who will be putting in extra hours to protect and serve. Officers are working days off and extended days in anticipation of the crowds expected to attend the parade. Authorities say officers will be stationed at various locations so they can respond to any disruptions.

In an effort to address any safety concerns, the parade route has been shortened, and the number of parade entries has been reduced.

Organizers say they expect hundreds of thousands of people to attend the iconic event, which is not only a parade, but represents community.

It is expected to be hot on Sunday, so parade-goers are being encouraged to drink lots of water.

There will be cooling buses stationed nearby.

The 55th annual Pride Parade theme is "free to be proud" and gets underway at 11 a.m. Sunday.

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At the Jarvis Block Party in Rogers Park, attendees filled the streets in rainbow colors, marking the inaugural year of the festival hosted by North Side Queer Pride at Jarvis Avenue and Greenview Avenue. The event featured activities for all ages, including food, music, and pop-ups from queer-owned businesses.

"And, it's so wonderful to see this community come out and just celebrate and show their true colors," said Mercy B'Luv of the Second City Sisters.

Organizers and participants emphasized the importance of hosting events within neighborhoods, making Pride celebrations more accessible across the city.

"And, it's really hard for people across the city to get to one centralized event. So, having something in the neighborhood that brings together community... is what we need right now," said Sister Michelle Redacted of the Second City Sisters.

Organizer Natalia Vera said the event centered on both identity and unity during a challenging time.

"It's highlighting not only people's identities, but also a coming together. And, what that really means in terms of the time that we're living in, making sure people feel safe," Vera said.

Elsewhere in the city, Pride events continued with lively performances at Gallagher Way and the annual "Proud to Run" at Montrose Beach. Now in its 44th year, the run drew advocates for 5K and 10K races along the lakefront.

"We're trying to reach out to the larger national population in order to let them know that you're seen here, you're safe here, please come here and be with us," said Kevin Barbeau, executive director of the Northalsted Business Alliance.

As Pride Month celebrations approach their conclusion, officials say safety remains a top priority heading into the weekend's events, including the Pride Parade.

Violence, vandalism or criminal activity "will not be tolerated, and we will take enforcement swiftly and appropriately," said Chief Angel Novalez of the Chicago Police Department.

Ald. Bennett Lawson of the 44th Ward also emphasized the broader significance of the parade.

"With continuing attacks the community all across the country the pride parade sends a strong message Chicago is a safe and welcoming space for everyone," Lawson said.