Chicago Queer History Walking Tours: June 27: The First Chicago Pride Parade

On June 27, 1970 Chicago’s Gay Liberation Front organized the world’s first ever Pride Parade. The unpermitted parade was originally planned to start in Washington Square Park and end at the Chicago Water Tower, but the 150 or so marchers spontaneously extended the route down Michigan Ave, ending at Civic Center Plaza in the shadow of City Hall – followed by 8 police cars and 2 paddy wagons. Fifty-six years later, join me as we recreate the route and learn about some of the Chicago Queer History along the way.

Time: Saturday, June 27, 1 pm
Start: Washington Square Park (Bughouse Square) 901 N Clark St
End: Daley Plaza (50 W Washington St)
Distance: apx 2 miles

The University of Illinois Chicago Gender and Sexuality Center presents a series of Chicago Queer History Walking Tours for Summer 2026. Tours are conducted by Daniel Williams, a political science professor who’s been bringing the details of Chicago’s queer past to life on social media. Follow him on Instagram @Daniel.Edward.Williams
All walking tours are free, with tips gratefully accepted, but not expected.