The Bud Billiken Parade & Picnic, the nation’s oldest and largest African-American parade, second only in size to the Tournament of Roses Parade, celebrates its 80th anniversary with expanded year-round programs and a new green initiative geared to
The Bud Billiken Parade & Picnic, the nation’s oldest and largest African-American parade, second only in size to the Tournament of Roses Parade, celebrates its 80th anniversary with expanded year-round programs and a new green initiative geared to youth education, employment and conflict resolution, and an updated Web site.
The Bud Billiken Parade & Picnic is a proud African-American tradition originated by founder Robert S. Abbott in 1929 to rally the newsboys who sold Chicago Defender newspapers and prepare them for going back to school.
The custom of putting the spotlight on youth and education continues on the second Saturday in August each year. More than 1.5 million people attend, not including the television viewing audience. The theme of this year’s parade is "Education, Yes We Can: A Salute to President Barack Obama." It will be held on August 8 along King Drive, culminating in Washington Park.
Eighty years after it began, Bud Billiken is a year-round program that supports youth with scholarships, internships, college recruitment and job training. The Charities also develops programs that address issues of violence and assists at-risk Chicago Public School students.
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