The annual Bud Billiken Parade and Picnic is the oldest and largest parade of its kind in the country.
Founded in 1929, by Robert S. Abbott, the founder of the Chicago Defender, the Bud Billiken is a back-to-school celebration named after Billiken, a mythical character.
This year, the very real honorary Grand Marshall was R. Kelly, who is recuperating from throat surgery. Kelly asked to participate in the parade to pay homage to fans.
The Bud Billiken Parade and Picnic is held every second Saturday in August and is seen all over the country.
