Tag: events

How Cities Are Celebrating Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour Stops

July 19, 2023 Published by

City officials have been pulling out all the stops to welcome the superstar.

Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift performs onstage for the opening night of “Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour” at State Farm Stadium on March 17, 2023 in Swift City, ERAzona (Glendale, Arizona). John Shearer/GI for TAS Rights Management

Taylor Swift‘s The Eras tour is making its way across North America, and city officials have been pulling out all the stops to welcome the superstar to their stadiums.

The friendly competition between cities to one-up the royal treatment has led to all types of exciting photo ops for Swifties and honors for Swift herself. From making Swift the honorary mayor of the day and giving her the key to the city to renaming stadiums, streets and even cities themselves, The Eras tour is certainly making an impact on every location it visits.

We’ve compiled all the fun ways cities have been welcoming The Eras tour, and we’ll be updating it as Swift continues her string of performances. See below.

  • Glendale, Ariz.

    Mayor Jerry Weiers of Glendale, Ariz., officially renamed the city to honor The Eras tour kickoff on March 17.

    “And now therefore, I, Jerry P. Weiers, mayor of the city of Glendale, on behalf of our city council, do hereby proclaim that on March 17 and 18, 2023, the city of Glendale will be renamed Swift City,” he said in a ceremonial press conference to share the news before sneaking in a couple of lyrical references. “And all Swifties are encouraged to share their smiles that could light up this whole town on all the social media platforms because the best people in life are free.”

  • Las Vegas

    Sin City lit up their Gateway Arches every night ahead of Swift’s shows on March 24 and 25, representing all of the singer’s albums.

  • Arlington, Texas

    In celebration of the the three shows at AT&T Stadium from March 31 to April 2, Arlington went all out with fun attractions and events, from a new street called “Taylor Swift Way” to a pet adoption spree. They even gave Swift a key to the city.

  • Tampa, Fla.

    Tay enjoyed her time in Tampa from April 13 to 15 as mayor of the city.

 » Read More

Chicago-Area 4th Of July Events Kick Off With Festival Of Life, American Music Festival

July 3, 2023 Published by

CHICAGO (WLS) — It may not be the actual holiday, but for many, Monday was a day to celebrate.

In Plainfield, as people settled into their lawn chairs at Bott Park for a dusk fireworks display, the park’s parking lot was transformed into a food truck festival.

“It’s really fun, I like how they have everything like the activities are fun everybody is dancing,” said Gianna Thompson.

“It’s close to home, it’s good food, good music the kids are having fun so it’s always a good,” said Cybrian Thompson.

In Naperville, a special Fourth of July celebration and salute to the nation’s heroes was held at Rotary Hill, featuring a live band and family entertainment.

“It’s an opportunity for us to celebrate our independence and honor our veterans and those that are currently serving as well as our first responders,” said Michele Clemen of the Naperville Salute Charitable Organization.

Proceeds from the four-day celebration will go to Naperville Responds for Veterans. Last year they raised $50,000 to help with home repairs, renovations and construction.

Make sure to check out the International Festival of Life in Washington Park, Chicago and the American Music Festival at FitzGerald’s in Berwyn, IL.

In Chicago, many were off work, outdoors and catching a break from the rain.

“It’s amazing this is what we live for in Chicago. A perfect day, perfect time, and it’s a complete contrast to yesterday,” said Denise Loyd.

The African Caribbean International Festival of Life in Washington Park celebrated the uniqueness of Caribbean cultures and commonality of humanity with food, music and arts.

“I’ve been coming here since I was a kid. Washington park area, born and raised, Chicago. What’s more summertime in Chicago than being in Washington Park?” said Trevor Thompson.

Thompson’s attire was direct from Kingston, Jamaica.

SEE ALSO | Fireworks 2023 near me: Full list of July 4th fireworks displays, events across Chicago area

Ephraim Martin, originally from Jamaica, started the festival 30 years ago.

“Love, it’s about peace and happiness. Understand where we are coming from, and who we are. That’s what the Festival of Life is all about. It’s a grand celebration of people coming together,” Martin said.

In Berwyn, it is the 40th anniversary of the American Music Festival at FitzGerald’s.

 » Read More

Fireworks 2023 Near Me: Full List Of July 4th Fireworks Displays, Events Across Chicago Area

June 21, 2023 Published by

CHICAGO (WLS) — Here is ABC7 Chicago’s yearly list of fireworks shows in our viewing area. See the list below for Chicago-area and suburban 2023 Fourth of July fireworks shows organized by county.

This list may not include all municipalities. To add yours – Contact Us

WATCH: Firework safety tips

CFD is urging caution for anyone using fireworks in Chicago.

COOK COUNTYChicago: Navy Pier Independence Day Fireworks & Celebration

Chicago’s Navy Pier celebrates Fourth of July weekend with a firework show over Lake Michigan

Saturday, July 1 (more dates every Wednesday and Saturday in the summer)

9 p.m. fireworks show

Navy Pier

600 E. Grand Ave.

Chicago, IL 60611

Barrington 4th of July Celebration

Sunday, July 2

9:30 p.m. fireworks show

Barrington High School

616 W. Main St.

Barrington, IL, 60010

Bartlett 4th of July Festival Fireworks

Tuesday, July 4

9:15 p.m. fireworks show

Community Park

S. Bartlett Rd. and Stearns Rd.

Bartlett, IL 60103

Bridgeview 3rd of July Celebration

Monday, July 3

9:15 p.m. fireworks show

Commissioners Park

8100 S. Beloit Ave.

Bridgeview, IL 60455

Buffalo Grove Fourth of July Fireworks and Concert

Tuesday, July 4

7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Willow Stream Park

651 Old Checker Road

Buffalo Grove, IL 60089

Burbank Party in the Park

Saturday, June 24

9:30 p.m. fireworks show (event begins at 12 p.m.)

Narragansett Park

77th and Narragansett

Burbank, IL 60459

Burr Ridge Pleasant Dale Park District Independence Day Fireworks

Monday, July 3

Dusk fireworks show (event begins at 5:30 p.m.)

Walker Park

7425 S. Wolf Road

Burr Ridge, IL 60527

Des Plaines Independence Day Celebration

Sunday, July 2

Dusk fireworks show at approximately 9:15 p.m. (gates open at 7 p.m.)

Oakton College

1600 E. Golf Road

Des Plaines, IL 60016

Elgin Fourth of July Celebration

Tuesday,

 » Read More

Weekend Of Juneteenth Events Mixes History, Celebration And Fun; ‘This Is About The Freedom Of Our People’

June 19, 2023 Published by

Willie Edwards is a 75-year-old Waukegan native. She is a grandmother, and a great grandmother. She said she learned about Juneteenth only a few years ago, and she recently bought a T-shirt online with a message to wear when she celebrates now.

Reading “Juneteenth, June 19th, 1865, because my ancestors weren’t free in 1776,” Edwards said her parents never told her about the Southern United States her mother fled at 9.

“They kept us away from all that,” Edwards said. “They were trying to protect us. They wouldn’t let us go down South because they were afraid of what may happen. I’ll be telling my grandchildren and great grandchildren about their history while they sit at my feet.”

Wygenia Brisco, third from left, talks to U.S. Rep Brad Schneider while her great nieces, Alivia Bone, second from left, and Allani Nort, listen.

Wygenia Brisco, third from left, talks to U.S. Rep Brad Schneider while her great nieces, Alivia Bone, second from left, and Allani Nort, listen.

Edwards was among more than 750 people at the Juneteenth youth celebration Monday at Whittier Elementary School in Waukegan, capping a four-day weekend of events commemorating the end of chattel slavery in the United States.

Sylvia England, the founder of the African American Museum in Waukegan, said it is important for people old enough to remember the days of legislated discrimination in the South against Black people to deprive them of voting and other rights, to tell their stories.

“My great, great, great grandmother was born a slave,” England said. “It was hard to research. People should tell their stories. When we put bits and pieces together, we get a bigger story.”

Starting Friday with a cookout in Zion, there was a historical bus tour through Waukegan, North Chicago and Lake Bluff, and a party in North Chicago Saturday. After a gospel concert in North Chicago Sunday, the holiday weekend ended with a prayer breakfast in Mundelein and the youth event Monday.

Pony rides were part of the entertainment at the Juneteenth youth celebration Monday in Waukegan.

Pony rides were part of the entertainment at the Juneteenth youth celebration Monday in Waukegan.

Brandon Ewing, one of the organizers of the weekend’s events and the president of the Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 Board of Education, said it is important to make sure the next generation knows the story of Juneteenth. A party atmosphere helps the mission.

“It’s important to keep telling the story so the next generation and the ones after them … know the truth about American history,” Ewing said.

 » Read More

Chicago Celebrates Unofficial Start To Summer With Event-Packed Weekend

May 29, 2022 Published by

chicago

Updated on: May 29, 2022 / 12:59 AM CDT / CBS Chicago

Memorial Day brings weekend of events in Chicago

Memorial Day brings weekend of events in Chicago 01:30

CHICAGO (CBS) — Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial start to summer, and this year Chicago is kicking off the season in style, hosting dozens of fun events, including a brand new musical festival downtown. 

CBS 2’s Marissa Perlman stopped by Grant Park where Sueños Chicago was in full Swing Saturday with crowds, music and dancing. 

The all-new festival celebrates Latin Reggaton, and Saturday it had Grant Park packed with thousands of people for the beginning of the two-day festival. 

It also brought a huge security presence, and streets were closed off around the show. 

There were big headliners like J-Balvin and Ozuna, bringing out big crowds, especially for lovers of Latin music. 

Saturday night also brought the Belmont Sheffield Music Festival in the heart of Lakeview. With that came deejays, lawn games and cover bands, plus everything Chicago street festivals are known for: food and drink. 

Despite a recent wave of violence and high COVID-19 numbers hitting the city, people said they have been looking forward to celebrating the unofficial start to summer on this long weekend. 

“I just really came for the vibes. I know that sounds so silly, but I love all the artists,” said Seuños fan Angie Sanchez. 

“I’m really excited this even existed because I’ve never heard of a Latino festival in Chicago,” said Jordan Alvarez.

These events have brought heavy traffic to Chicago. The city is encouraging anyone heading out to use public transportation all weekend long. 

 » Read More

Guide To The Musical ‘Chicago’ On Broadway | New York Theatre Guide

January 7, 2022 Published by

Learn about the musical’s record-breaking Broadway revival, its many celebrity casts, how to get tickets, and all that jazz.

Gillian Russo

Enter a world of jazz, crime, and razzle dazzle at Chicago on Broadway. Set in the 1920s and based on real events, this satirical show follows wannabe jazz age stars who get their fame not just for their singing or dancing talent, but for committing murders that make sensationalized headlines all across the city of Chicago.

But even though their lawyer claims all you need is razzle dazzle — that “long as you keep them way off balance, how can they spot you’ve got no talents?” — Chicago’s success isn’t built on artifice; the musical showcases genuine talent in spades. Stars like Gwen Verdon, Chita Rivera, and Ann Reinking helped the show take off in its early days, and numerous stage and screen stars have since shown off their talents in the lead characters’ shoes.

Chicago was met with mixed reviews upon its 1975 premiere, but in the nearly 50 years since, the musical, its songs, and its choreography have all become an iconic part of Broadway history. The current production celebrated 25 years on Broadway in 2021 and has set and broken numerous records in that time. Read on to learn all about the history, casts, and fun facts of Chicago, and all the basic information you need to know before heading to the Ambassador Theatre to see the show on Broadway.

Get Chicago tickets now.

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What is Chicago about?

Chicago centers on Roxie Hart, a chorus girl who dreams of being a vaudeville star. She’s cheating on her sweet but dim-witted husband named Amos — and when her lover tries to end their affair, she kills him in a fit of rage. Getting thrown in the Cook County Jail seems like a surefire end to Roxie’s dreams of stardom, but her sentence ends up being her ticket to fame.

Her lawyer, the smooth-talking Billy Flynn, helps her concoct a defense that earns the press’s sympathy and gets her face on the cover of every newspaper in Chicago. And while in jail, Roxie meets Velma Kelly, an established vaudeville star who murdered her husband and sister.

 » Read More

48 Fun Holiday Events For Kids In Western Suburbs – Chicago Parent

March 14, 2021 Published by

Celebrate the holidays in the Western Suburbs with the whole family! Read some of our picks below and find the most updated list on our calendar. Don’t forget to check out other kid-friendly holiday events in the city, North/Northwest Suburbs and South Suburbs.

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas Holiday Exhibit

When: Nov. 7-Dec. 22

Where: Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster Street, Naperville

A historic look at a seminal story written in 1823 that continues to endear itself to contemporary audiences. Told through community-provided collections in partnership with the Golden Glow of Christmas Past.

Wheaton Holiday House Walk

When: Nov. 16

Where: Town Square Wheaton, 271 Town Square, Wheaton

Many of Wheaton’s most beautiful homes, decorated for the season, are open to the public with Flight members as your guides. The homes are all located in historic downtown Wheaton. New this year, guests may enjoy a coffee and cookie break while taking in the stained glass of St. Paul Lutheran Church.

Festival of Lights Tree Lighting

When: Nov. 16

Where: The Promenade Bolingbrook, 631 E. Boughton Road, Bolingbrook

Visit with Santa and enjoy holiday activities before the lighting of the tree. Activities include cookie decorating, ornament making, costume character meet & greet, balloon artists and more. Tree lighting begins at 6:15 p.m.

Winter Lights Holiday Walk

When: Nov. 22

Where: Water Street Mall, 24 E. Downer Place, Aurora

The twinkling lit streets will be filled with live music, costumed characters, live ice sculpting, local art, food vendors, festive photo-ops, live reindeer, trackless train and Christkindlmarket. The official City of Aurora Holiday Tree will be illuminated by Mayor Weisner, Miss Merry Christmas and Mr. Jack Frost.

Illumination: Tree Lights

When: Nov. 23-Jan. 5

Where: The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle,

Illumination brings lights and nature together to transform a wintertime walk in the woods into an awe-inspiring experience. Walk a mile-long path to marvel at trees illuminated in colors and interact with lighted trees that respond to voice or touch.

Naper Lights

When: Nov. 26-Dec. 27

Where: Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St.,

 » Read More

Fun Ways To Celebrate Leap Day In Chicagoland

March 11, 2021 Published by

Leap Day comes around once every four years on the last day in February. Although Leap Day is not an official holiday, it’s still a fun day to celebrate.

Check out these Leap Day events in and around Chicagoland to enjoy as a family.

Leap Day Celebration at Gage Park Branch

Feb. 29, 2024

All ages can visit Gage Park Branch for a Leap Day Celebration with games and crafts. Registration required.

Leap Day Story Time at Garfield Ridge Branch

Feb. 29, 2024

Children ages 3-5 can join the Garfield Ridge Branch for a fun story time to celebrate Leap Day. Registration required.

Leap Day Family Swim at Goldfish Swim School – Mundelein

Feb. 29, 2024

Enjoy a fun, family-friendly event at Goldfish Swim School – Mundelein to celebrate Leap Day. RSVP required.

Leap Day Family Swim at Goldfish Swim School – Naperville

Feb. 29, 2024

Enjoy a fun, family-friendly event at Goldfish Swim School – Naperville to celebrate Leap Day. RSVP required.

Leap Day Family Swim at Goldfish Swim School – Northbrook

Feb. 29, 2024

Enjoy a fun, family-friendly event at Goldfish Swim School – Northbrook to celebrate Leap Day. RSVP required.

This article originally published on Feb. 16, 2016. It has been updated with the most recent information. 

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Kari Zaffarano

Kari Zaffarano

Kari Zaffarano is a mom of one and Chicago Parent’s Audience Development Coordinator. She tracks down the best events every week and shares the inside scoop with families in print and online. She enjoys reading, traveling and exploring new places with her son.

 » Read More

Best Halloween Events For Kids In Chicago And Suburbs

March 11, 2021 Published by

When spooky season arrives in Chicagoland, local businesses and attractions go all out to offer plenty of Halloween fun for kids. The best part is that you can celebrate Halloween during the whole month of October!

Chicago and the suburbs offers a variety of kid-friendly events featuring costume parades, hands-on activities, trick-or-treating and so much more. Here are some of our spooktacular picks you don’t want to miss.

Looking for more fun things to do with kids this fall? Check out our fall family guide!

City Photo credit: Color Factory Photo Credit: Peppa Pig World of Play
Brick-or-Treat Presents: Monster Party at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago

Sept. 29-Oct. 31, 2023

Join the Monsters as they take over LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago to enjoy boo-tastic activities and a limited time 4D Halloween movie, ‘The Great Monster Chase!’. Also, a glow-in-the-dark LEGO zone, haunted MINILAND scavenger hunt, not-so-scary giveaways and more. Come in costume.

Jack O’ Lantern World in Lake Zurich

Sept. 29-Oct. 29, 2023

Walk through thousands of hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns created by more than 50 artists make up 17 immersive and whimsical fall displays. Enjoy food and beverage from some of your favorite local food trucks.

Peppa’s Spooktacular Halloween Storytime Event! at Peppa Pig World of Play Chicago

Oct. 1-31, 2023

Families with littles can join Peppa Pig World of Play Chicago for a special Halloween story, meet and greet with Peppa, activity trail and more.

The Halloween Experience at Camp Big Timber

Oct. 6-29, 2023

Enjoy Chicagoland’s only Halloween music and light show drive-thru at Camp Big Timber. It’s all spooky and never scary. For all ages.

The Great Highwood Pumpkin Fest & Skeleton Invasion

Oct.

 » Read More

Exciting Father’s Day Events To Make Dad Feel Special

March 11, 2021 Published by

This Father’s Day, whether you’re celebrating Dad at breakfast or brunch, or hitting the trails for a walk or fishing expedition, the father figure in your life is sure to enjoy his day with an event on this list.

There are also plenty of ideas to help the kids make their own cards and gifts for Dad.

Looking for more fun things to do with kids? Check out our summer family guide!

This article was recently updated on May 9, 2024 by Chicago Parent’s Audience Development Coordinator, Kari Zaffarano. The update included her updating Father’s Day events in Chicagoland and adding new Father’s Day events for families. Questions? Please reach out to kari@chicagoparent.com.

Father’s Day Events near me in Chicago Father’s Day Craft at Vodak-East Side Branch

June 13, 2024

Ages 3-13 can come out to Vodak-East Side Branch to celebrate your father figure with a special craft for Father’s Day.

Father’s Day Premier Plus Brunch Cruise on the Chicago River

June 16, 2024

Spend Father’s Day on the water with an upscale brunch that includes a chef-prepared dinner, wine and cocktails, live entertainment and incredible views of Chicago. For all ages.

Father’s Day Signature Dinner on Lake Michigan at Navy Pier

June 16, 202

Spend Father’s Day on the water with a chef-prepared dinner, cocktails and incredible views of Chicago. For all ages.

Father’s Day Events near me in the North/Northwest Suburbs Father’s Day Forest Find at Heller Nature Center

June 16, 2024

Dads accompanying their children or grandchildren can work together to solve a Father’s Day scavenger hunt. For ages 6-plus. Registration required.

Lambs Farm Father’s Day Brunch at Magnolia Cafe & Bakery

June 16, 2024

 » Read More

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