Photograph: Jordan Avery
Jump into summer in Chicago with our picks for the best festivals, fairs, exhibits and events.
Is there anything better than June in Chicago? The days are long, summer festival season has arrived and cold weather finally feels like a distant memory, giving us ample opportunity to enjoy afternoons at Chicago beaches and evenings spent sipping frozen cocktails at the city’s best rooftop bars. As always, you’ll find plenty of seasonal events to keep busy, from big summer music festivals like the Chicago Blues Festival and the Lyrical Lemonade Summer Smash to charming neighborhood art fairs. Plus, don’t miss the numerous Pride events happening. Say hello to summer with our list of the best things to do in Chicago this June.
RECOMMENDED: Events calendar for Chicago in 2024
Featured events in June 2024
Kick off the start of summer festival season at Do Division, the street shindig with live music booked by Empty Bottle and Subterranean in West Town. Catch performances at two stages—including acts like Divino Niño, Arm’s Length, Susto and Avey Tare—and check out food trucks, a fashion show, vendors for shopping and a Family Fun Fest area with kids activities, among other attractions.
No, you haven’t stumbled into an early Oktoberfest—this is just how Lincoln Square welcomes street-festival season and the beginning of spring. Hoist a stein, grab a pretzel, watch some lederhosen- and dirndl-costumed dancers and embrace the neighborhood’s German heritage over the course of one fun-filled weekend.
The oldest juried craft fair in Hyde Park features paintings, sculptures, jewelry and ceramics from nearly 200 artists. The event also features blues and jazz acts, presented by Buddy Guy’s Legends, as well as a family-friendly activity area and various food vendors. Attendees can shop for artwork created in a variety of mediums, including glass, jewelry, leather, photography, printmaking, painting, sculpture, wood, ceramics or fiber.
Chicago House Music Festival and Conference
This annual fest and conference celebrating the iconic dance music genre born in Chicago brings a full day of DJ sets to Millennium Park. Acts this year include Wayne Williams,
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