GiGi's Playhouse Chosen To Lead Oak Forest Fleadh Parade

OAK FOREST, IL — A beloved local nonprofit has been tapped to lead the Oak Forest Fleadh parade in March.

The Oak Forest-Crestwood Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Oak Forest announced Thursday that GiGi’s Playhouse Tinley Park will serve as grand marshal of the Oak Forest Fleadh family parade on Saturday, March 1. The parade steps off at 11 a.m. at 151st and Central Avenue and heads south to the Oak Forest Park District.

“The Oak Forest Fleadh celebrates Irish culture and tradition as well as the people and businesses of Oak Forest,” said Chamber of Commerce Director Kim Malecky-Iles. “We are honored to have Gigi’s Playhouse lead our parade to help spread the organization’s message of kindness and inclusivity.”

Gigi’s Playhouse Tinley Park opened its doors in September 2013, proudly becoming the 15th playhouse nationwide. The organization’s purpose is to change the way the world views Down syndrome and to change lives through free educational, therapeutic-based, and career development programs for individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the community.

As the grand marshal, Gigi’s Playhouse members and volunteers will lead approximately 50 parade units, including a pipe and drum band, civic and community groups, schools and churches, and local businesses along Central Avenue.

“We got our start in Oak Forest, so this is a homecoming of sorts,” said Site Manager Karen Connelly. “We are looking forward to celebrating our families and volunteers, promoting a more accepting world, and having lots of fun while doing it on Central Avenue. We are extremely grateful for the opportunity to share our message with the Oak Forest community.”

To learn more about the Oak Forest Fleadh, including the CNB Oak Forest Fleadh 5K, visit the City's website.