Sunday, June 28, 2026 is the Chicago Pride Parade, and for the third year in a row, Chicago PrimeTimers will have an official trolley entry in the parade—and we are thrilled to be participating once again!
If you’ve never ridden or marched in the parade before, this is truly an unforgettable experience. Our trolley is comfortable, festive, and makes riding the parade route easy and fun. We are usually placed early in the parade lineup, which means there is typically less waiting time and more time enjoying the excitement of the day—along with the incredible experience of seeing the crowds cheering and waving as we roll through the city.
For those who want to ride together, the trolley will pick up many of us at the Open Space Arts office (corner of Dover & Wilson) at approximately 8:15 a.m. (exact time to be confirmed closer to the parade date). This allows us to arrive together as a group, which is often much less stressful than traveling individually by public transportation or car.
If you prefer to meet us closer to the parade staging area, that’s absolutely fine too. We will share our exact parade lineup number and meeting details about a week before the parade, once we receive the official placement.
At the end of the parade, participants may get off near the park (off Cannon Drive) and continue their day however they wish. Or, you can stay on the trolley and ride back north to Wilson Avenue, where the trolley can drop you off at the Wilson Red Line stop or at our post-parade gathering location: Uptown Taproom on Wilson Avenue.
Join us afterward for cocktails, burgers, and great bar food as we celebrate Pride together!
The parade entry fee and trolley rental are covered through club member donations, along with a small participation fee for those riding or walking with us. That fee will also include a special 25th Anniversary Chicago PrimeTimers T-shirt, with more details to be announced later this spring.
Come ride with Chicago PrimeTimers and be part of one of the most joyful and affirming days of the year!
Chicago Pride Parade – CPT Information
Sunday, June 28, 2026
We’re thrilled to be marching in the Chicago Pride Parade for the third time! Each year has been bigger, louder, and more joyful than the last—and 2026 is shaping up to be our best yet. Thank you for being part of this proud CPT tradition. We can’t wait to celebrate together, show off our community spirit, and make some unforgettable memories.
Trolley Schedule
Wilson Avenue Pickup
Arrival & Departure
The trolley will arrive at 1411 W. Wilson (Open Space Arts) at 8:15 AM and will depart promptly at 8:30 AM for the parade lineup.
Please be on time—we cannot delay departure.
Boarding at Wilson
If you plan to board at Wilson, please arrive a few minutes early.
Restrooms at Wilson
Before boarding, restrooms will be available at:
We strongly recommend using the restroom before departure.
Meeting at the Parade Lineup
Lineup Information
Our exact parade entry number and lineup location have not yet been assigned. CPT is typically near the front of the parade, and we will share final details as soon as they are confirmed.
If you are meeting us at the lineup rather than riding the trolley, look for our trolley and CPT group when you arrive.
Ride or Walk Options
You are welcome to ride on the trolley or walk alongside it, waving flags and banners and helping us bring CPT’s energy to the parade.
Timing at Lineup
Please plan to arrive by 9:30 AM.
We’ll be decorating the trolley and would love your help.
All participants must be in place by 10:00 AM so we’re ready when the parade begins.
Important Reminders for Parade Day
-
Stay Hydrated: Bring a water bottle. We’ll have a cooler on the trolley to keep drinks cold.
-
Sun Protection: Expect sun and heat. Please wear sunscreen, and consider a hat and sunglasses.
-
Comfort & Safety: Wear comfortable shoes. Small bags (snacks, sunscreen, etc.) can be stored on the trolley.
Participation Fee
The participation fee helps cover our official parade entry fee and the cost of renting the trolley. All funds collected go directly toward making our CPT Pride Parade presence possible.
After the Parade
Parade End & Cleanup
The parade ends near Cannon Drive, just south of Diversey.
Once we finish the route, we’ll stop to take a group photo and spend a few minutes removing decorations from the trolley. Please plan to stay for both.
Return Trip & Drop-Offs
After cleanup, you’re welcome to reboard the trolley for the ride north.
We’ll travel up Lake Shore Drive with drop-offs at:
Many of us will head to Uptown Tap Room for a celebratory lunch—join us if you can!
Thank you for being part of this special day and for representing Chicago PrimeTimers with pride.
See you bright and early Sunday—let’s celebrate, show our pride, and have an amazing time!
