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One of the biggest pride celebrations in the country, the Chicago Pride Parade, steps off Sunday for its 54th year.
Organizers, police and businesses spent the first part of the weekend putting together the finishing touches for the parade.
Multiple people who live and work in Chicago said they’re ready to show off their pride.
“I’m very excited,” said Juan Gonzalez. “It’s good to see everybody, feel supportive. That’s the most important thing – that people feel welcome.”
Others said it’s fun to watch the whole community come together, but some have concerns – at least when it comes to the weather.
“Always a little bit worried about the heat,” said Daniel Hernandez. “I’m more worried about the sun burning my skin, but outside of that, I mean, I think it’s always a good time.”
Bars and restaurants along the parade route have been stocking up and making sure they’re fully staffed to welcome the crowds.
“It’s one of the busiest days if not the busiest next to Cinco de Mayo,” said Israel Sanchez, Cesar’s on Broadway owner. “We’re stocking up even with ice, especially tomorrow. It’s going to be hot, so we have an extra machine come in just to make ice.”
Cesar’s on Broadway, which is known for its margaritas, is offering a “Pride-rita” drink special. Every dollar from the drink sale will go to the Howard Brown Health Center.
“Obviously being part of the community, we always want to give back and that’s someone we aligned with a long time ago,” Sanchez said. “We’ve been doing it for a couple of years, and it’s been received very well.”
Parade organizers encourage people to arrive early and take public transportation.
With temperatures in the nineties, organizers also advise people to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. Medical areas and cooling buses will be available for those in need.
As the parade nears, the city’s top cop said he wants people to celebrate safely and responsibly.
“We’re not going to tolerate people who come down after the parade to take over the streets to engage in that reckless behavior, fight, and in some cases bring weapons,” said Superintendent Larry Snelling. “Last year we made 52 arrests.”
Back at Cesar’s on Broadway, the owner told NBC Chicago he’s more than prepared for Sunday.
“We feel safe, and as always, Chicago police are always present and we do our job to make sure that we keep our area safe as well,” said Sanchez.
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