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The Best July Events In Chicago

June 28, 2024 Published by AI

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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Food, Music, Art And Workouts In The Park — Family-Friendly Fests And Special Events Offer These And More

June 7, 2024 Published by AI

There’s certainly no shortage of things to do, eat, drink, hear and experience in the Chicago area this summer. The sheer number of festivals and special events is impressive, and even overwhelming, so we’ve compiled a list of the not-to-be-missed.

Whether you handpick a few or hit ‘em all, you won’t be sorry you checked out these Chicago-area events and fests.

Looking for family fun? Many of Chicago’s festivals are kid-friendly, but for events, shows and concerts that cater to children, teens and families, check out our family fun guide.

Special Events

Chicago City Markets: Shop local produce, goods, plants and more at farmers markets in the Chicago area, nearly every day of the week. Visit chicagocitymarkets.us for exact dates and locations. Now through October. Citywide. Free admission.

Arbor Evenings: Set up a spot on Frost Hill at the Morton Arboretum for live music, a BYO or food truck picnic, lawn games, family fun and sunset views. Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m., now through Aug. 21. Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. Tickets free for infants 2 and under, free to $5 for children 2-17 and $10-$15 for adults; mortonarb.org

Live on the Lake! and Summer Fireworks: Head to the Navy Pier Beer Garden at the end of the Pier for free live music (and a cheeky brew) from 2-11:10 p.m., on select dates now through Sept. 29. And you might as well stick around for the Pier’s summer fireworks, on Wednesdays at 9 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 p.m., now through Aug. 31. Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. Free; navypier.org

Fridays on Fulton: Ring in the weekend with these Friday pop-up parties, featuring art installations, performances from rising Chicago House artists and more. July 26, Aug. 30. Fulton Market. Free; starevents.com

Craft Brews at the Zoo: Attend an adults-only, after-hours evening at the zoo with over 100 craft beers and ciders! Tickets include 20 three-ounce pours, a souvenir glass, yard games, live music, access to food trucks and more. 6-10 p.m. June 15. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St. Ages 21+. Tickets $55-$65; lpzoo.org

Taste of Chicago: Try fabulous food from Chicago’s diverse culinary scene in Rogers Park (June 15; Touhy Park, 7348 N. Paulina St.); Marquette Park (July 27;

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Chicago Pride 2024 Events Calendar

June 3, 2024 Published by AI

A person on a parade float throws out confetti during the 51st Annual Pride Parade on the North Side, Sunday, June 26, 2022.

Anthony Vazquez/Sun-Times file

From parties, street festivals, family fun and much more, here’s what’s on Chicago’s Pride 2024 calendar. [month] [day], [year], [hour]:[minute][ampm] [timezone]

Pride Month in Chicago means plenty of opportunities to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, honor pioneers of the past and cultivate support and allyship.

Below, you’ll find our growing calendar of Pride 2024 events throughout June.

Got an event that you think we missed? Email us at audience@suntimes.com so we can add it to this calendar.

Happy Pride! 🏳️‍🌈

Upcoming things to do for Pride Month in Chicago

🎤 Sapphic Comedy Hour
Wednesday, June 5, 7 p.m.
📍Dorothy, 2500 W. Chicago Ave.
Seven sapphic comedians take the stage for a Pride comedy showcase, hosted by Sierra Kenyon and Rogue Schmidt.
Admission: $10

🪩 Ballroom By The Books Workshops at Chicago Public Libraries
📍 West Lawn Branch | June 5, 3 p.m.
📍 Kelly Branch | June 12, 3 p.m.
📍 Leger Regional Library | June 20, 3 p.m.
📍 Final Ball: Harold Washington Library | June 27, 3 p.m.
Hosted by School of Opulence, teens ages 12-17 can participate in three workshops on the most fundamental ballroom categories, Vogue, Runway, and Face/Makeup. This program allows a safe space for creative expression of LGBTQ+ teens.
Admission: Free

🛍️Chicago Pride Kick-Off Urban Queer Art Show & Market
Wed, June 5 – Sun, June 9
📍PrideArts, 4139 N. Broadway
A five-night market showcasing artwork and handmade goods from local creators.
Admission: $17

🇸🇪Andersonville Midsommarfest
Fri, June 7 – Sun, June 9
📍Clark Street, from Foster to Gregory
A Swedish tradition-turned-Chicago summertime staple, with food, vendors and five stages of entertainment, including the Balmoral Pride stage highlighting DJs, drag performances and more.
Admission: $10 suggested donation

🇵🇭The Great Baklaan
Saturday, June 8, 10 a.m.
📍18th Street Casa de Cultura,

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Chicago House Music | History, Venues & Events Guide | Choose Chicago

May 29, 2024 Published by AI

Chicago boasts a rich musical history and is famous for many sonic innovations including gospel music, drill, Chicago-style blues — and house music.

Thanks to a massive international following, some music fans don’t realize that Chicago is where house music was born. Developed by Black DJs during the late 1970s and ‘80s, Chicago house music exploded from an underground dance scene into a worldwide phenomenon.

Learn more about Chicago’s house music legacy and where to experience it for yourself.

Chicago house music venues and clubs

Smartbar holds a strong legacy in the Chicago house scene. Opened in 1982, this tiny Wrigleyville basement club hosted Frankie Knuckles as its first DJ. Today, you’ll hear an assortment of house DJs from all over the world play, including legendary Chicago house DJ Derrick Carter, who maintains a residency at Smartbar.

Spybar is a subterranean nightclub that hosts international artists spinning a selection of techno and house music. This upscale River North spot features a rotating line-up of dance DJs from all over the world.

Stony Island Arts Bank offers a close-up view of house music history through Frankie Knuckles’ personal vinyl collection. The Grammy-award-winning artist cataloged roughly 5,000 records that chronicle the development of house music. A resident DJ incorporates selections from the collection in regular public shows.

Chicago house music festivals and events Chicago House Music Festival crowd Chicago House Music Festival

Chicago House Music Festival and Conference brings house music fans from around the country to Chicago for a free, multi-day celebration of the Chicago-born genre. The annual event kicks off summer with DJs and live performances showcasing the various sounds and styles of house music.

Chosen Few Picnic is the highlight of the year for house heads. This family-reunion-style event unfolds each July in Jackson Park and features over 12 hours of nonstop house music by the south side DJs who helped create it.

My House Music Festival is a two-day summer music fest in Harrison Park in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood. The event includes dozens of house DJs, including iconic pioneers like Derrick Carter and Marshall Jefferson, plus local food, merch, and art.

ARC Music Festival takes place for three days in Union Park over Labor Day weekend.

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The Best June Events In Chicago

May 29, 2024 Published by AI

Chicago Pride Parade 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

Do Division Street Fest

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.

Maifest

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.

57th Street Art Fair

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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Things To Do In Chicago This Memorial Day Weekend: Beach Openings, Festivals And More

May 24, 2024 Published by AI

Memorial Day weekend is nearly here and there will be no shortage of things to do and ways to enjoy the long holiday weekend – no matter the weather — in Chicago.

As you look to plan your Memorial Day weekend in and around Chicago, here’s a roundup of events taking place, what to know if you plan to head to the beach and more.

Chicago’s N. Lake Shore Chicago Beaches Open

According to the Chicago Park District, beaches will open for the first time on Friday, and will remain open daily through the Labor Day holiday.

Additional security measures will be put into place once the summer swimming season begins, according to the park district.

Starting Friday, a beach mobile unit with six prominently marked vehicles and security officers in bright yellow will be visible along the lakefront.

Local

According to the the park district, swim conditions are updated each day around 11 a.m. “based on weather and surf conditions, and around 1:30 pm based on water quality conditions.”

“Flags may be updated throughout the day as needed,” the park district said.

Several beaches are currently closed due to erosion, including Fargo Beach, Howard Beach, Juneway Beach, and Rogers Beach. More information can be found on the park district website.

Beachgoers are reminded that there is no smoking or alcohol consumption allowed on beaches. No dogs are allowed except at designated dog-friendly beaches, and residents are not to feed birds or wildlife.

Here’s how to check the water temperature at Lake Michigan.

Memorial Day Things to Do

Festivals, flea markets, farmers markets, food and more will be on display this Memorial Day weekend in Chicago. Here’s a glimpse into some of the events planned across the city and suburbs.

Sueños Music Festival

The Latin music festival brings reggaeton and Latin artists from across the globe to Chicago. This year’s lineup includes Rauw Alejandro, Young Miko, Bizarrap and more, the fest takes place Saturday and Sunday in Grant Park. The event also features a number afterparties and other events. The full lineup can be found here.

Passes are currently on sale and begin at $310.

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The Best Places For Berry Picking Near Chicago

May 23, 2024 Published by AI

strawberry picking Photograph: Shutterstock

Take a short drive for a day spent berry picking on farms near Chicago, where you’ll find strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and more

Fresh berries are one of the great joys of summer in the Midwest, and you can find them at farmers markets or integrated into the seasonal menus of the best restaurants in Chicago. But if you want to enjoy strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries at their absolute freshest, take a drive to a local u-pick farm and grab them right from the field. It’s one of the best kid-friendly things to do, letting little ones get a sense of how food is grown while also enjoying other farm activities, ranging from train rides to petting zoos depending on the season. Just be sure to check ahead to make sure the produce you’re looking for is still available before you head out to one of these farms for berry picking near Chicago.

The top places for berry picking

1. Stade’s Farm and Market

This McHenry County mecca offers more than your average farm. In addition to summer berry picking, Stade’s has a full market, farm tours, sunset hayrides and a petting zoo at certain times of the year. Check out the stash of strawberries in mid-June, or head there later in the season for raspberries, blueberries, flowers and vegetables including green beans, snap peas, beets and kohlrabi.

2. Heider’s Berry Farm

Just over an hour northwest of downtown Chicago, you’ll find Heider’s Berry Farm in Woodstock, where five generations of the Heider family have been giving Chicagoland families a magical farm experience. Visit in mid-June to pick delicious strawberries, or grab an assortment of red, black and purple raspberries beginning in July. Visit their Facebook page for updates on hours and availability.

3. Thompson Strawberry Farm

Open from mid-June through early July, this Wisconsin farm offers the chance to fill baskets with strawberries right from the field or grab some that have already been picked fresh that day. With 97,000 plants across seven acres, you’ll find plenty of delicious fruit to snack on or turn into jam or baked goods.

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The Best Chicago Music Festivals To Rock Out At

May 21, 2024 Published by AI

Photograph: Courtesy VolleywoodThe best Chicago music festivals to rock out at in 2024

Explore the best summer music festivals in Chicago—from Lollapalooza to Pitchfork to Riot Fest.

There’s nothing quite like Chicago’s festival season, which brings a full roster of musical acts to town from May through September. Not sure where to start? Kick things off with reggaeton-focused Sueños Music Festival over Memorial Day weekend, or head to Chicago Blues Festival in early June. As summer goes on, make room in your schedule for returning favorites like Windy City Smokeout and Taste of Randolph plus big-name festivals in the city’s amazing parks, including Lollapalooza, Pitchfork Music Festival and Riot Fest. And if you’re hoping to save money, don’t forget about Chicago’s free summer music series programming! We’ll keep updating this list as more festivals announce lineups—in the meantime, take a look through some of the best summer music festivals coming to Chicago in 2024.

Sueños Music Festival

Started in 2022, this two-day extravaganza returns to Grant Park over Memorial Day weekend. Taking place on a single stage in Grant Park’s Hutchinson Field, Sueños will feature headlining sets from Peso Pluma, Ivan Cornejo, Rauw Alejandro and Maluma. Other notable names on the lineup include Bad Gyal, Mora, Manuel Turizo, Xavi, Gabito Ballesteros and more.

In addition to two days of music, you can try food from some of Chicago’s best Latin restaurants, a host of experiential activations and a Ferris wheel in the park that you can ride between (or during) sets. It’s one of the largest new festivals to come to launch in Chicago in years and a fitting addition to a summer festival calendar that’s more crowded than ever.

Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival

Love cover bands? Head to Lakeview (right by the Belmont Red Line station) for three days of music, featuring local tribute acts like 16 Candles and Rod Tuffcurls & the Bench Press. A second stage hosts an eclectic array of community performers, plus karaoke with Trader Todd’s. Plus, you’ll find beer, wine and plenty of neighborhood vendors to browse while you hang out on the street.

Jazz’n on the Steps

The South Side Jazz Coalition hosts a series of free monthly jazz performances every summer on the steps of St.

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The Best Things To Do In Chicago

May 14, 2024 Published by AI

a craft fair Photograph: Jaclyn Rivas

Find the best things to do in Chicago this weekend with our guide to concerts, exhibitions, festivals and more.

Welcome to another weekend! Take a load off by soaking in a spa or spending some time at the best Chicago attractions. Street fest season has arrived with the return of Chicago Mayfest, the Renegade Craft Fair and the Lincoln Roscoe Art and Craft Fair. You can also catch live jazz string performances, attend a chocolate fest in Long Grove or run a marathon along the lakefront. So ready to make the most of your time off? Check out the rest of the best things to do in Chicago this weekend.

Events and to do this weekend in Chicago

1. Chicago Mayfest

Say a hearty hello to (almost) summer at Mayfest, the annual street party in Lincoln Park that’s outfitted with the usual selection of local vendors, tasty food, cover bands and ice-cold beverages. This year, the event will feature the Armitage Art Show, letting attendees experience Chicago’s top artists as they showcase and sell their works and present interactive art demonstrations.

2. Renegade Craft Fair

Renegade Craft Fair’s flagship event returns to Andersonville, taking over a stretch of Clark Street spanning from Bryn Mawr to Edgewater Avenue. Attendees will be able to shop the handmade wares of more than 250 vendor booths, selling everything from candles and screenprints to jewelry and pottery. The fair also boasts food and drink from local restaurants, so you won’t have to go hungry (or thirsty) while you shop.

3. Lincoln Roscoe Art and Craft Fair

Taking place on Lincoln Avenue between Roscoe and School Streets, this two-day event will present more than 75 vendors selling handmade art—including paintings, sculptures and fiber pieces—as well as jewelry and decor. The weekend will also have live music, festival food and a selection of brews for purchase curated by Bitter Pops.

4. Wright Plus Architectural Housewalk

Get an inside look at eight Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings—including private residences normally closed off to the public—as part of this one-day touring event run by the iconic architect’s trust,

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The Most Fun Dinner Spots In Chicago – Chicago – The Infatuation

May 10, 2024 Published by AI

Those seeking a polite meal, click away now. This guide is reserved for anyone who’s wondering, “Where’s the place to be?” and might have a penchant for mid-dinner photoshoots and post-dinner bar hopping. Chairs aren’t just for sitting in some of these restaurants and, while food is important, a good time takes priority. They range from new spots flooding your feeds to classics where successful meals are determined by how many Old Fashioneds you drink with your server. These places may not all be the best new restaurants in town, but you’ll always walk out with a story or two.

La Serre is a fun French-Mediterranean spot in Fulton Market with just the right amount of flowers and subwoofers. It’s buzzy but never too loud, and the shareable courses are thoughtful despite the presence of big mirrors that say corny things like “Merci Beaucoup.” The creamy angel hair pasta warrants the suggested 15g caviar on top, and other less-pricey classics like the tuna crudo and filet mignon are more than satisfying. Along with the monstrous bouquet at the center of its dining room, La Serre has the feel of a wedding party, without the immediate threat of running into estranged cousins.

Brasero seems to specialize in throwing a party every night. This Latin American spot in West Town is great for upbeat get-togethers of all sizes, with a mix of shareable dishes like fried quail and grilled half lobster, and catchy Bossa nova music that practically begs you to show up with the best gossip to match the secluded space and good-times vibe. But Brasero’s food is equally fun, with nearly everything nailing a balance between sweet and spicy. The moqueca has the perfect amount of chili to enhance the coconut broth, mahi mahi, and shrimp. Whatever you order, you’ll all leave with a light cologne of smoke, thanks to the wood-fire grill in the back and dessert sparklers that constantly float around.

If the pounding bass-heavy music bleeding onto the Fulton Market sidewalk indicates anything, it’s that Costera likes to party. The liberal use of straw, palm trees, and basket lights leans into its Tulum theme, while the dim lighting and loud DJ sets prove that it’s taken Clubstaurant 101. You’re not really here for the food—it ranges from just fine tacos to tableside flamebéed al pastor that fizzles out into a jammy disappointment.

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Tag: food

The Best July Events In Chicago

Food, Music, Art And Workouts In The Park — Family-Friendly Fests And Special Events Offer These And More

Chicago Pride 2024 Events Calendar

Chicago House Music | History, Venues & Events Guide | Choose Chicago

The Best June Events In Chicago

Things To Do In Chicago This Memorial Day Weekend: Beach Openings, Festivals And More

The Best Places For Berry Picking Near Chicago

The Best Chicago Music Festivals To Rock Out At

The Best Things To Do In Chicago

The Most Fun Dinner Spots In Chicago – Chicago – The Infatuation

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