THE VOICE OF CHICAGO'S GAY, LESBIAN, BI, TRANS AND QUEER COMMUNITY SINCE 1985

Competitors signed up at the starting line near Belmont at a booth staffed by Howard Brown Health volunteers. Numbers were assigned to entrants, who were then divided into five categories for best in character, creative, scary, youth and group. Winnings totaling $4,000 were distributed between $100 for first place, $200 for second place and $500 for first place at a public contest to held at the parade route's end at Halsted and Cornelia. The event was presented by the Northalsted Business Alliance.

Lining up in the procession this year were grand marshal Ald. Bennett Lawson (44th Ward); members of the horn-honking Windy City Jeep Club; a thrilling Lakeside Pride Marching Band; and the fiery Chicago Full Moon Jam, among many others.

Kicking off at approximately 7:30 p.m. The Good Bus crew and handheld organizational banner began moving down the street heading north. Bundled-up fans cheered and clapped for their favorite costumed revelers and performers along the way in support.

Those who braved the treacherous weather gathered together at the stage built at 3514 North Halsted St. for a few brief announcements and directions. Sponsors Daze Off, a cannabis-focused producer, and nrg Energy both had vendor booths. Music duo Molly & Alex sang popular hits such as Kylie Minogue's "Padam Padam" and "Time Warp" from Rocky Horror Picture Show.

The awards portion of the programming was once again hosted for the third year in a row by NBC5's Matthew Rodrigues and drag artist Batty Davis. A horde of horror fans in front of the stage screamed for their favorite garbed characters, and local members of the Northalsted Business Alliance made the deciding call if the race was close between contestants. Creativity and time spent curating the costumes were factored in, while Davis and Rodrigues joked with contestants to gather information. Some of the standouts included a shrimp-eating Ursula from The Little Mermaid, and a glittery inspiration from The Nightmare Before Christmas.

A dance party that had ghouls gallivanting in true ballroom style followed, just before most folks left for various haunts around the neighborhood at 10 p.m.

For future information on events in the Lakeview area, please visit northalsted.com .