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Today in History: First Bud Billiken Parade Celebrates African-American Heritage

8/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On August 11, 1929, the inaugural Bud Billiken Parade and Picnic took place in Chicago, marking the beginning of the largest African-American parade in the United States. Founded by Robert S. Abbott of the Chicago Defender, the event celebrates African-American culture and community, featuring a parade along Dr. Martin Luther King Drive and a festive picnic in Washington Park.

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Story summary

On August 11, 1929, the inaugural Bud Billiken Parade and Picnic took place in Chicago, marking the beginning of the largest African-American parade in the United States. Founded by Robert S. Abbott of the Chicago Defender, the event celebrates African-American culture and community, featuring a parade along Dr. Martin Luther King Drive and a festive picnic in Washington Park.