The Best July Events In Chicago

Photograph: Courtesy Volleywood

Plan your July in Chicago with our calendar of events and things to do, including festivals, concerts and movie screenings.

Friday June 28 2024

Photograph: Courtesy Volleywood

Summer in Chicago hits its peak during July, when some of the city’s biggest festivals and events return to town and bring enough live music, incredible food and general outdoor merrymaking to fill every weekend (and probably a good amount of weekdays, too). Kick off the month with Fourth of July celebrations, highlighted by sparkling fireworks shows across the city and suburbs. From there, take a deep dive into the heart of summer festival season at events like Wicker Park Fest, Miche Fest, Windy City Smokeout and Pitchfork Music Festival. For even more ways to keep busy on long summer days and nights, check out our guide to the best things to do in Chicago this July.

RECOMMENDED: Events calendar for Chicago in 2024

Featured events in July 2024

NASCAR Chicago Street Race

NASCAR returns to Chicago for another weekend of street racing, sending cars going over 100 miles per hour down Lake Shore Drive, Michigan Avenue, Columbus Drive and other downtown thoroughfares. You can purchase tickets to watch all the action from reserved seats and designated viewing areas, and also enjoy concerts by The Chainsmokers, The Black Keys, Keith Urban and Lauren Alaina.

African Caribbean International Festival of Life

For three decades, the African Caribbean International Festival of Love has brought reggae and world music performances, Afro-Caribbean food, games, crafts and more to Washington Park. This year, the fest will take place over Independence Day weekend, with performances from a variety of artists.

Pride South Side

Show off your pride at the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center in Washington Park. Providing a safe space for Black and Brown members of the LGBTQ+ community, the sixth annual Pride South Side celebration will feature musical performances across two stages, a vendor fair with local small businesses, family-friendly activities and more. This year’s theme is the “Right to Pride,” which positions the LGBTQ+ community at the front of advocacy, culture and leadership

Chicago Craft Beer Festival

The Chicago Craft Beer Festival returns to Jonquil Park this year for a three-day extravaganza of craft brews. 

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