Nov. 22: A treasured family tradition for 79 years, the annual McDonald’s Thanksgiving Day Parade marks the official arrival of the holiday season. Running along State Street between Congress and Randolph, the parade will feature marching bands, floats, staged performances and giant balloons, as well as appearances from Grand Marshal and WWE champion CM Punk, model (and Daily Splash contributor) Jaslene Gonzalez, Miss Illinois Ashley Hooks, the Harlem Globetrotters and of course, Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The event is free and open to the public, though revelers who want an up-close view can buy an individual parade sponsorship to guarantee a front-and-center spot. 8 a.m to 11 a.m., North State at East Congress. To purchase a sponsorship — and to see the full lineup of parade guests — visit Chicagofestivals.org.

Nov. 22: A treasured family tradition for 79 years, the annual McDonald’s Thanksgiving Day Parade marks the official arrival of the holiday season. Running along State Street between Congress and Randolph, the parade will feature marching bands, floats, staged performances and giant balloons, as well as appearances from Grand Marshal and WWE champion CM Punk, model (and Daily Splash contributor) Jaslene Gonzalez, Miss Illinois Ashley Hooks, the Harlem Globetrotters and of course, Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The event is free and open to the public, though revelers who want an up-close view can buy an individual parade sponsorship to guarantee a front-and-center spot. 8 a.m to 11 a.m., North State at East Congress. To purchase a sponsorship — and to see the full lineup of parade guests — visit Chicagofestivals.org.