Chicago Thanksgiving Parade Gets New Sponsor, Ensuring Holiday Tradition's Future

CHICAGO, IL – November 17, 2025 – The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade, a beloved annual tradition stretching back to 1934, has secured a new presenting sponsor in global professional services firm Forvis Mazars. The partnership, announced today, officially renames the event the ‘Chicago Thanksgiving Parade presented by Forvis Mazars’ and aims to ensure the parade’s continued success for years to come.

A Legacy Secured Through Partnership

The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade has long been a cornerstone of the city’s holiday season, drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators to the streets and millions more via broadcast and streaming platforms like PlutoTV and CBS Chicago. However, maintaining such a large-scale event requires significant financial resources. Forvis Mazars’ investment comes at a crucial time, providing stability and allowing for expansion of the parade’s reach and impact.

“The parade is more than just a spectacle; it’s a unifying force that celebrates our city’s rich cultural diversity,” said a representative from the Chicago Festival Association, the organization responsible for producing the parade. “This sponsorship from Forvis Mazars is a testament to their commitment to our community and their understanding of the parade’s value.”

The financial health of the parade has historically relied heavily on corporate sponsorship. Previous title sponsors, including McDonald’s, Target, and Marshall Field’s, have played a vital role in keeping the tradition alive. The announcement of Forvis Mazars as the presenting sponsor ensures that this history of corporate support continues.

Forvis Mazars: A Commitment to Community and Values

Forvis Mazars’ decision to sponsor the parade aligns with the firm's broader commitment to corporate social responsibility and community engagement. The firm, formed through the merger of FORVIS and Mazars Group, boasts a strong track record of philanthropic initiatives, supporting organizations focused on combating hunger, promoting health and well-being, and ensuring equal access to education. Their recently launched charitable foundations, both globally and in the UK, further demonstrate this dedication.

“We believe in giving back to the communities where we live and work,” explained a representative from Forvis Mazars. “The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade embodies the spirit of togetherness and celebrates the values we hold dear. It’s an honor to partner with such a cherished institution.”

This is not simply a marketing exercise for the firm. The firm’s recent financial performance, with over $5.2 billion in global revenue, showcases its stability and ability to make significant long-term investments. The firm’s commitment to ESG initiatives and its robust volunteer programs underscore a genuine desire to make a positive impact beyond financial contributions. Forvis Mazars' financial growth of over 4% this past year showcases a stable business that's able to make contributions like this without risk.

Beyond the Balloons: The Economics of Cultural Events

The partnership between Forvis Mazars and the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade highlights a broader trend: the increasing reliance of cultural institutions on corporate sponsorships for financial sustainability. While public funding and ticket sales contribute to revenue, sponsorships often provide the crucial financial lifeline that allows these events to thrive.

“It's becoming increasingly challenging for cultural institutions to rely solely on traditional funding sources,” said an anonymous cultural funding expert. “Corporate sponsorships provide a much-needed influx of capital, allowing these organizations to maintain their programs and reach wider audiences.”

However, this reliance on corporate funding also raises questions about the potential for commercial influence over cultural content. Maintaining artistic integrity and ensuring that the event’s core values remain intact are critical considerations.

“It’s a delicate balancing act,” said a representative from the Chicago Festival Association. “We’re committed to maintaining the parade’s authenticity while also being grateful for the financial support that allows us to continue this beloved tradition.”

The firm's history of involvement in community endeavors is a sign that they will be a fitting partner for the parade, able to contribute more than just funds. Their IMPACT Days program, with thousands of volunteers dedicating time to local non-profits, showcases their committment to giving back.

The choice of Forvis Mazars also seems to be a strong choice due to its size and recent merger; the merger of FORVIS and Mazars Group creates a strong, sustainable sponsor.