Photos: Chicago’s 86th annual Thanksgiving Parade

Chicago Thanksgiving Parade volunteers carry colorful balloons at the close of the parade on November 28, 2019. | Max Herman/For the Sun-Times

The city kicked the holiday season into high gear Thursday morning with the 86th annual Chicago Thanksgiving Parade.

Thousands lined up downtown to see the official mascot Teddy Turkey, Santa Claus himself and more than 90 groups marching in the downtown spectacle.

The parade was first launched in 1934 as the “Christmas Caravan,” intended to cheer up city residents in the depths of the Great Depression.

And the beloved tradition has carried on. This year’s grand marshals were actors Chris Sullivan from NBC’s “This Is Us,” and Miguel Cervantes, who plays the title role in Chicago’s production of “Hamilton.”

Here’s a look at the fun, with photos by Max Herman for the Chicago Sun-Times:

The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade kicks off on State Street on November 28, 2019.

Members of the Marist High School RedHhawks marching band perform in the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade.

The crowd cheers as members of the Punjabi Cultural Society dance in passing at the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade on November 28, 2019.

The Michigan City Soul Steppers Drill Team performs in the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade on November 28, 2019.

Miss Illinois Outstanding Teen Imani P. Muse participates in the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade on November 28, 2019.

A baby traveling with the Windy City Ghostbusters watches the crowd at the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade on November 28, 2019.

Riders from Herder Farms ride cattle horses at the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade on November 28, 2019.

Members of the Chicago Chinese Culture and Arts Society maneuver a puppet dragon at the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade on November 28, 2019.

Katherine Quezada takes a photo with actor Chris Sullivan, who stars on TV series This Is Us, during the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade on November 28, 2019.

Members of Dong Fang Performing Arts participate in the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade on November 28, 2019.

Members of the Mobile Azalea Trail show off their dresses at the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade on November 28, 2019.