Thanksgiving In Chicago: A MapQuest Guide

Thanksgiving in Chicago is a time for gathering with family and loved ones, expressing gratitude and, of course, eating. As part of TurkeyQuest -- a MapQuest guide to Thanksgiving events, featuring everything from parades to holiday sales to activities for families -- here are two of the best ways to experience Thanksgiving in Chicago and one opportunity to give back to others.

Chicago Thanksgiving Events Map

McDonald's Thanksgiving Parade

Chicago's annual McDonald's Thanksgiving Parade takes place on Thanksgiving morning and runs through the streets of downtown. The event features marching bands, equestrian units and festive floats, not to mention appearances from the likes of Ronald McDonald and Santa Claus. Among the event's most popular attractions are the massive, Thanksgiving-themed inflatables, including Pilgrim Garfield and Teddy Turkey, the parade's mascot. Individuals can get in the holiday spirit of giving back by volunteering for the parade, as well. Families are encouraged to arrive early to find a premier viewing spot on State Street. The parade is free.

South State Street and East Congress Parkway, Chicago, IL 60605

Odyssey Thanksgiving Cruises

Couples and families looking for a novel way to enjoy their Thanksgiving meal can hop aboard an Odyssey Cruise at Navy Pier and enjoy Chicago's lakefront while they dine. Two cruises are offered on Thanksgiving: a two-hour lunch cruise departing midafternoon or a three-hour dinner cruise leaving in the evening. Guests on both cruises will be treated to a traditional Thanksgiving buffet, featuring turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, vegetables and a dessert bar. The lunch cruise is $40.90 for adults and $24.95 for children 12 and younger; the dinner cruise is $69.90 for adults and $41.95 for children.

600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

Volunteer: Little Brothers Chicago

Chicago's chapter of Little Brothers, Friends of the Elderly makes sure that no elderly person spends Thanksgiving alone in the city. The organization's Thanksgiving celebration brings together the elderly, the organization's employees and their families and community volunteers for a special holiday celebration. Several volunteer opportunities are available on Thanksgiving Day. Volunteers can serve as drivers, transporting the elderly to and from the celebration, or as on-site volunteers, cooking a traditional Thanksgiving meal, decorating the space, cleaning up after dinner and simply spending time with some of these wise and witty seniors.

355 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL 60607 | Go to Huffington Post Impact to see how else you can volunteer.

Thanksgiving In Chicago: Video

The McDonald's Thanksgiving Parade features polished musical acts, marching bands and a giant inflatable clown.

Did we miss a Chicago Thanksgiving event? Tell us about it in the comments section below.

Want other great Thanksgiving events and volunteering opportunities? Check out TurkeyQuest and our coverage in Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin.