Now 90 years strong, the annual tradition brought the return of giant helium balloon, festive floats, international bands, and a lot of dancing.

The 90th annual Chicago Thanksgiving Parade kicks off Thursday morning. The parade – featuring marching bands, floats, equestrian units and performers – travels up State Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street. Here’s key things to know about the parade and how to watch it. The parade starts at 8 a.m. CST.

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Thanksgiving festivities took over a packed State Street on a brisk Thursday morning for the 90th annual Chicago Thanksgiving Parade. "We're starting to get cold," Chris Janick from Leland, Illinois, said. "We actually came out last night got a hotel room and wanted to see this parade."

Beginning at 8 a.m., nearly 100 people will participate in live performances, ride on festive floats, and much more along State Street.

Before sitting down for dinner on Thursday evening, families gathered downtown for Chicago’s annual Thanksgiving Parade. For 90 years, Chicago has celebrated the holiday with a parade.

LOOP — Smiles and festive attire were plentiful along State Street as thousands lined up to watch the 90th Chicago Thanksgiving Parade Thursday morning. The annual celebration brought music, worldwide cultures, giant balloons, dancing and more as over 100 groups made their way through the Loop. Even Santa and Mrs. Claus made an appearance.

After Chicago's coldest Thanksgiving Day in 10 years, temperatures get even colder through the holiday weekend.

The Loop boomed with music, from Kool & the Gang’s “Celebration,” to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” with the holiday cheer helping remedy chattering teeth during the chilly, windy parade.