Bud Billiken Parade

This historic parade is the second largest parade in the United States, and the largest black parade in the world.  It’s an important celebration of music, food, dance and laughter in the African American community. It marks the beginning of the school year, and over $25,000 in scholarships is awarded to applicants, and 100,000 school supplies are given to students.

“Our mission is to celebrate African-American culture while connecting the community to resources that promote education and empowerment. This mission is built on the rich legacy of the Chicago Defender Newspaper which served as a cultural beacon, chronicling the Black American pursuit of a life enriched by opportunity. The paper played an integral role in the Great Migration as it spread news of northern jobs and opportunity to the south.”- From the Bud Billiken Parade website