Family, costumes and community spirit: La Grange Pet Parade returns for 78th year
More than 40,000 people are expected to arrive downtown La Grange to experience a tradition that began nearly 80 years as a small parade of children proudly showing off their pets.
Stepping off at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 1, at La Grange Road and Cossitt Avenue, the La Grange Pet Parade is set to captivate the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Established in 1947 by the La Grange Chamber of Commerce, the parade has become a cherished event, connecting the community around the delightful concept of a pet and child costume contest parading through the streets of La Grange.
“The La Grange Pet Parade is a long-standing tradition that brings the community together as our own kick-off to summer,” said Molly Price, executive director of the La Grange Pet Parade. “The event always takes place the Saturday morning after Memorial Day.”
Over its 78-year history, the Pet Parade has evolved from a modest gathering to a grand spectacle, boasting a lineup of 116 entries this year. From marching bands to elaborate floats, the parade showcases the creativity and spirit of the La Grange community.
“The La Grange Pet Parade is a long-standing tradition that brings the community together as our own kick-off to summer,” said Molly Price, Executive Director of the La Grange Pet Parade. “The event always takes place the Saturday morning after Memorial Day.”
To honor the premise of the original parade — children dressing up and walking with their pets down Main Street in La Grange — a costume contest is planned for all ages. This year’s parade also features an impressive lineup of acts, ranging from the Crystal Lake Strikers to the South Shore Drill Team, set to entertain spectators of all ages. Gerald Honda of Countryside is the event’s premier sponsor, helping to make the entertainment possible.
“Gerald is sponsoring a float filled with princess movie characters that the crowd will definitely love,” Price said. “We couldn’t have the Pet Parade without generous sponsors like the Gerald Honda of Countryside!”
Gerald Honda of Countryside is proud to support the La Grange Pet Parade each year.
"The La Grange Pet Parade marks the delightful commencement of summer in the community,” said Donna Lawler of the Gerald Auto Group. “We feel privileged to contribute to a tradition that spreads joy and togetherness to countless individuals."
To learn more about the Pet Parade, visit https://www.petparadefundraiser.com/. To learn more about the Gerald Honda of Countryside, visit https://www.geraldhondacountryside.com.