My daughters and I went to Chinatown for the 2025 Lunar New Year Parade on Feb. 9. We had never visited Chinatown together, so I wanted them to experience the local businesses and parade. In 2025, the Lunar New Year Parade was set for Feb. 9 and 16 at 1 p.m.
As is expected in February in Chicago, it was in the 20s. If you are heading to the parade, be sure to bundle up. Bringing chairs is not necessary; most people do not. The tricky thing about going to watch the parade is that no public restrooms are available. The best you can do is purchase from a local restaurant to be able to use their restrooms. Most other businesses don’t offer public restrooms, either. If you have kids, this can be an issue because kids tend to have to go at the most inconvenient times. Be prepared to support local restaurants or tea shops for the privilege of using their restrooms.
Before the parade, you might catch a dragon snaking down the street or drummers performing. You might see people practicing their dancing or marching, too.
We noticed that once the parade starts, people tend to walk about, including in front of you. If you think you might have a good viewing spot, be prepared to have someone come and stand directly in front of you. That means you should be adaptable and prepared to adjust your spot. Some people choose to secure a spot in front of a restaurant’s window. This seems like a smart strategy: You can watch from the comfort of a heated space.
The parade begins with leaders including Mayor Brandon Johnson walking. Lots of people with cameras crowd around them. Overall, the parade is fun! Marchers had out red envelopes and other freebies that kids love.
Many talented marching bands participate in the parade. One of them even played a Taylor Swift song, which the girls and I enjoyed.
I would love to attend the parade again now that I know what it’s like. I would bring hand warmers and more layers next time to have an even better time. Snacks and drinks are also a good idea, as well as patience to brave the crowds on the way out.
Marette Flora is the founder of Floradise blog and personalized gift shop. Marette is a passionate storyteller and creator. She attended the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University and obtained a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication.
She is passionate about creating helpful and meaningful things.