Bears legend 'Peanut' Tillman to serve as grand marshal for 2026 Chicago Thanksgiving parade

Chicago Bears legend Charles "Peanut" Tillman will lead this year's Chicago Thanksgiving Parade as the grand marshal.

The 92nd annual parade steps off at 7:45 a.m. Thanksgiving morning at Ida B. Wells Drive and State Street.

That's about an hour earlier than usual.

Giant balloons, marching bands and live performances will make their way north to Randolph Street.

Actor and Arlington Heights native Jake Connelly will also join the celebration as an honored guest. He starred as Derek Turnbow on "Stranger Things."

Among this year's new sights will be a Cookie Monster giant balloon and a brand-new sleigh for Santa Claus to close the parade.