A group of fuzzy and adorable Miniature horses became instant fan favorites when they marched in the 75th Annual McDonald’s Thanksgiving Day parade in downtown Chicago on Thanksgiving Day. Lennie Bertrand, of Bertrand’s Miniature Horse Ranch, brought 21 Miniature horses to march in the parade much to the delight of the 400,000 plus spectators who came out to enjoy Chicago’s favorite tradition.

Bertrand said it was his 11th year to bring his Miniature horses to the parade, and he had friends from as far away as California, Georgia and Ohio call him to say they saw his small equines marching down Chicago’s State Street. The parade, which is televised in over 75 million homes, gives viewers all across the country the chance to enjoy the Miniature horses as well as Ronald McDonald, Santa Claus, marching bands, giant inflatable helium balloons and a cast of thousands that take part in the annual event.

“The parade organizers hold an informal poll at the end of the parade in which they ask the fans which parade group they liked the best and our Miniature horses came in second,” Bertrand said. “We were the second favorite behind the Budweiser Clydesdales, but it’s tough to beat the Clydesdales.”

Bertrand’s Miniature Horse Ranch, from Watseka, IL, has made participating in the parade a family tradition that includes inviting city children to help lead the Miniature horses along the parade route. “It’s fun and interesting for the fans because we let them reach out and pet the Miniature horses,” Bertrand said. “A lot of people have never had the opportunity to touch a horse, especially ones so little.”

Strutting their stuff in the Chicago parade is a great way for Bertrand’s Miniature horses to act as ambassadors for the breed. “We have to get up at 2:30 in the morning to take part in the parade, but it’s worth it to see how excited the kids get. The Miniatures are so little and the kids along the parade route aren’t scared of them,” Bertrand said.

The Thanksgiving Day parade, which was extended to three hours this year, showcases a variety of equestrian breeds and groups. Although the big Clydesdales may impress the parade goers, it is the small equines that win the hearts of the spectators. “We are one of the few horse events that are asked back every year,” Bertrand said, adding that his Miniature horses are always a hit.