As it does every year, the community organization, Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago (PCS) participated in the 90th anniversary of Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade with a decorated float, Ashke Bhangra Club team, Punjabi Dholi Manmeet Singh and DJ Miss Bhalla blasting Punjabi Bhangra music on State Street in the heart of downtown Chicago on November 28, 2024.
The parade started at Ida B. Wells Drive at 8 AM, ending at Lake Street around 11 AM.
There was a diverse array of more than 100 units in the parade including 20 school marching bands from across the country, five majestic equestrian units, several festive floats, dancers, singers, balloons, specialty groups from Illinois and other states. Santa Claus, also made an appearance.
In terms of ratings, it is the second-biggest televised parade on Thanksgiving Day in the U.S.A. the PCS said in a press release
“Participation in this parade has been an annual tradition with P.C.S. since 2005. It helps us create awareness about our community and culture in the mainstream,” Manjeet Singh Bhalla, the President of the organization is quoted saying. He was joined in the parade by his wife and daughter.
The young bhangra team in colorful costumes, coached by Navjodh Singh Bajwa and supported by the performers’ parents, danced energetically throughout the parade route, earning thunderous applause from onlookers.
“In addition to watching the floats, balloons, bands, and relishing the traditional turkey meal served at the family dinner table to celebrate the joy of holiday, the Thanksgiving is also known as a day to show gratitude,” said Rajinder Bir Singh Mago, member of the Board of Governors and a parade coordinator. “The theme of the P.C.S. float was gratitude towards the farmers of the world who grow food to feed the world,” Mago added.
Navtej Singh Sohi, Vice President said joining the parade gave the community great exposure in the mainstream, “and it shows our commitment to celebrate the American festivals, in solidarity with all Americans.”
PCS’ upcoming events include:
– “PCS Drawing Competition” for children 5 years old to 16 years old -Saturday, January 18, 2025, 10 am to 1 pm.
– “Rangla Punjab 2025,” Punjabi cultural variety program of performing arts, music, songs, giddha and Bhangra dances to celebrate Vaisakhi festival on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Copernicus Center.
– The 42nd Annual Asian American Coalition of Chicago (AACC) Lunar New Year Dinner Banquet,” is on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Hyatt Regency O’Hare, Rosemont, IL.
(Used with permission)
