Chicago City Wire

Chicago is preparing for Mexican Independence Day with a series of events and parades across the city, beginning Friday, September 12, and continuing through Tuesday, September 16. Other major events include Lady Gaga’s concerts at the United Center and the Lakeview East Festival of Arts. City officials are urging residents to use public transportation and plan ahead due to expected increased traffic.

The City is asking those participating in celebrations to be considerate of neighbors, critical facility workers such as hospital staff, and mindful of first responders who may need access through crowded areas. The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) will activate its Emergency Operations Center to monitor activities and coordinate resources in response to emergencies throughout Chicago.

The Chicago Police Department will enforce traffic regulations downtown, with uniformed officers present during celebrations. Residents should anticipate heavier traffic in central areas; street closures or diversions may occur if necessary. Those living or working in affected zones may need to show identification at police checkpoints. Event attendees arriving by car should bring proof of reservation or tickets for entry into restricted areas. Pedestrian access will not be limited.

Among the scheduled events is the annual El Grito 5K Family Run/Walk on Sunday, September 14, starting at 9 a.m. from 26th St. and Kostner Avenue in Little Village. The same day features two parades: the 26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade from noon to 3 p.m., beginning at the Little Village Arch on 26th Street and Albany Avenue; and another parade along Commercial Avenue starting at 1 p.m., moving south from 87th St. to disband near 103rd St.

The Lakeview East Festival of Arts will take place on North Broadway between Belmont and Hawthorn on Saturday, September 13, and Sunday, September 14.

Lady Gaga’s ‘The MAYHEM Ball’ tour stops at the United Center on September 15, 17, and 18 with gates opening at 6:30 p.m.

OEMC encourages people attending large gatherings to report suspicious activity by notifying onsite security or calling 9-1-1 as part of the national “If You See Something, Say Something” campaign. According to OEMC: “lone offenders and small groups motivated by a range of ideological beliefs and personal grievances continue to pose a persistent threat to the United States.”

For preparedness information—including safety tips, emergency alerts, weather updates—residents are encouraged to download the Chicago OEMC App via Apple App Store or Google Play Store or visit Chicago.gov/OEMC.

In Grant Park and along lakefront paths from 5700 North to 6600 South on DuSable Lake Shore Drive, pole markers help identify locations for emergency services or as meeting points if separated from others.

Both CTA (TransitChicago.com) and Metra (Metra.com) will provide public transit options during these events.

OEMC advises checking weather conditions before heading out; updates are available through local media or weather apps. OEMC also issues alerts about emergencies as needed.

More information about emergency preparedness can be found at Chicago.gov/OEMC or by following OEMC on Facebook (@coemc), Twitter (@ChicagoOEMC), Instagram (chicago_oemc_911), Bluesky (@chicagooemc.bsky.social), and Threads (@chicago_oemc_911).