Chicago will celebrate Italian American heritage on Monday, October 12, 2026, with the 74th Annual Columbus Day Parade, organized by the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans. The tradition dates back to 1952 and remains one of the city’s major annual Italian American celebrations.
This year’s parade will follow a new route because of road construction. Instead of State Street, participants will travel along Dearborn Street, beginning at Wacker Drive and continuing south to Van Buren Street. Opening ceremonies are scheduled around noon, with the parade running from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Campania has been selected as the 2026 Region of Honor, strengthening the direct connection between Chicago’s Italian American community and Italy. Michael Tadin, president of Marina Cartage, will serve as parade chairman.
Three personalities have been chosen as grand marshals – Lou Gramm, the original voice of Foreigner; Italian American actor and television personality Tony Danza; and Italian actress Cristiana Dell’Anna, who portrayed Mother Cabrini in the movie “Cabrini.” The celebration also comes during the 80th anniversary of Mother Cabrini’s canonization.
The day will begin at 9 a.m. with Mass at the Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii, 1224 W. Lexington Street, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at Arrigo Park. After the parade, celebrations will continue with a reception on Rush Street from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.
The weekend begins earlier, with an Italian flag-raising ceremony at Daley Plaza in downtown Chicago on Friday, October 9, from noon to 1:30 p.m. On Sunday, October 11, the Presidents’ Ball will welcome Italian American leaders and delegations from Campania and Italy at Belvedere Banquets in Elk Grove Village.
ABC7 Chicago will also broadcast the October 12 parade live.
