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The 50 Best Cities In The World For 2024

January 23, 2024 Published by AI

Porto Porto | Photograph: Shutterstock / joyfull

We quizzed thousands of city-dwellers to rank the best cities in the world right now. Ready?

What makes a city great? Some would say it’s all about buzzing neighbourhoods, affordable food and drink and a mighty selection of things to do, from art galleries and museums to live music and theatre. Others might highlight things like the happiness of its locals, access to green space and strong community vibes.

We factor in all that and more in our annual survey, which asks city-dwellers around the world to tell us what it’s like to live, work and play in their hometowns right now. Thanks to the opinions and insights of locals on the ground and our global network of city experts, we’re able to create a global ranking of the world’s best cities – and the 2024 results are in.

As in previous years, the basis of the ranking remains our global survey of the people who know their city best: the locals. Working with research company Potentia Insight, we surveyed thousands of city-dwellers about the quality and affordability of food, culture and nightlife in their city. We also asked locals how their city makes them feel: are they happy there? Is it a beautiful place? Is it easy to make social connections? Their thousands of responses gave us a unique insight into the reality of living in the world’s greatest cities right now.

Now that international travel is forecast to bounce back to the highest levels since 2019, many travellers will be planning a city break this year – so in 2024, we added a little extra weight to a city’s global appeal. Each survey respondent was asked which other city they would most like to live in, and we polled more than 100 well-travelled Time Out staff writers and editors, based all over the world, for their take on which cities are particularly exciting places to visit right now.

So, ready to find out which cities came out on top this year? On your marks, get set…

The 50 best cities in the world for 2024 New York Photograph: Massimo Salesi / Shutterstock.com

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The Ultimate Guide To Having Fun In Chicago Without Any Booze

January 16, 2024 Published by AI

Still reeling from eggnog-induced holiday hangovers? You’re not alone. Following a season of merry excess, the new year brings new opportunities for a reset—and a more balanced approach to mulled wine, perhaps. Dry January or not, it’s an apt time of year to reassess one’s relationship with alcohol, whether that means cutting it out entirely, simply cutting back, or taking more of a Damp January approach.

Across the US, the non-alcoholic landscape has evolved substantially in recent years. Nowadays, non-alcoholic wines and beers are a booming business, major airlines are offering more booze-free alternatives, and the condescending term “mocktail” is a thing of the past, reserved for cloying Shirly Temples, while zero-proof cocktails have become as impressive and innovative as their boozy counterparts. They even come in canned form now.

All over the country, from Denver to Boston, sobriety isn’t just a buzz word or a fleeting flirt with Dry January, it’s a way of life—and an enriching, fulfilling one at that. Chicago is no exception. While much has been made of the city’s myriad craft breweries and award-winning cocktail bars, this is a world-class city with a proven penchant for hospitality, and truly something for everyone.

No matter how wet or dry your January may be, or where you land on the “new year, new me” mood board, there’s plenty to do, see, and drink in Chicago—without a drop of alcohol. In bars and beyond, from indoor pickle ball courts to outdoor slopes, there are endless entertainment options to be had beyond a boozy bar crawl. Here is the ultimate guide to having fun in Chicago while sober.

Non-Alcoholic Food and Drink Things to Do in Chicago

Zero-proof cocktails

Non-alcoholic cocktails have come a long way from soda water and juice. Lately, bartenders and mixologists have been pouring as much diligent effort and thought into zero-proof cocktails as they do their alcoholic offerings, enabling customers to savor the same craft without the hangover—and often at a lower price point.

This means that some of Chicago’s most revered cocktail bars, like Billy Sunday and Kumiko, offer elaborate mixed drinks that are well-balanced, flavorful, and Insta-ready, without an ounce of alcohol.

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Memorial Day Weekend In Chicago | Fireworks, Things To Do, Events & Parades

January 15, 2024 Published by AI

Memorial Day weekend marks the official start of summer in Chicago, and the city knows how to celebrate. Each year, Chicago comes to life with spectacular fireworks displays, buzzing rooftop bars, sunset kayak tours, fun neighborhood festivals, waterfront restaurants with unforgettable views, and so much more. Here’s our roundup of some of the top things to do in Chicago for Memorial Day weekend.

In this article

See the Chicago Memorial Day fireworks

One of the city’s top attractions is Navy Pier, a waterfront stretch of rides, restaurants, entertainment, and more. The Pier is known for its spectacular summer fireworks displays, which kick off with the Memorial Day fireworks show.

While you’re there, take a spin on the iconic Centennial Wheel, grab a drink at Offshore (the largest rooftop bar in the world), and check out more things to do at Navy Pier.

Hit the beachPhoto by Miguel Ángel Sanz

Chicago has more than two dozen free public beaches, and they officially open for the summer season on Memorial Day weekend — so make sure to pack your swimsuit. Swim, tan, play volleyball, or head to a nearby beachfront bar to enjoy a cold drink with your toes in the sand.

Some of the city’s popular beaches include North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, 31st Street Beach, Montrose Beach, Hollywood Beach, and South Shore Beach. Check out our guide to Chicago beaches for more of the best places to soak up the sun along the city’s 26 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline.

Celebrate summer at a festivalSueños Music Festival

Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of festival season in Chicago. Check out some of these cool festivals, events, and markets happening over the holiday weekend.

Suenos Music Festival: Chicago’s reggaeton fest takes over downtown Grant Park with a lineup of Latin hitmakers.
Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest: The waterfront Lakeview neighborhood plays host to this Memorial Day festival, with tribute bands, artisans, and beer and wine vendors.

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The 18 All-Time Greatest Things To Do In Chicago

October 24, 2023 Published by AI

There are countless cool things to see, eat, and do in Chicago right now.

Updated on Oct 24, 2023 at 3:47 PM

Photo by Jaclyn Rivas for ThrillistPhoto by Jaclyn Rivas for Thrillist

All Time Greats is the ultimate city bucket list. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, consider this the essential guide to getting the most out of Chicago. Looking for events happening this weekend? Check out our Chicago weekend guide.

At the risk of sounding hyperbolic, Chicago is the rare city that really does have it all. It has all seasons, from the sweltering humidity of summer to the polar vortices of winter. It has towering skyscrapers and cozy brownstones. It has tasting menus and frills-free street food aplenty. It’s got world-class museums, Michelin stars, Taylor Swift-worthy stadiums, and the most iconic comedy club in the nation. And it has a whopping 77 neighborhoods (with a 78th on the way!), sprawled across 234 square miles of prime lakefront in northeast Illinois.

The third largest city in the country, a broad-shouldered behemoth that likes to compare itself to New York and flaunt itself as the metropolitan epicenter of the Midwest, Chicago undoubtedly boasts a lot to do, see, eat, and drink. Foodies could spend weeks eating their way through the West Loop alone, or hopping from rooftop bar to rooftop bar in the Loop and River North. Culture connoisseurs have a plethora of museums and live entertainment to choose from, year round. And tours here, whether a self-guided stroll on an urban trail or a cruise through an architectural Grand Canyon, offer a wealth of sights and experiences. In this ever-evolving town, it’s impossible to see all that Chicago has to offer, but this bucket list should offer a great introductory taste of what makes this city so great. Here are 18 of the all-time greatest things to do in Chicago.

Pequod’s Pizza | Photo by Jaclyn Rivas for Thrillist

Where to eat and drink in Chicago

The Publican

Fulton Market
The Fulton Market portion of the West Loop has really calcified as the nexus of Chicago’s famed food scene. Here, throughout a warehouse district formerly dominated by wholesale meatpackers,

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Pumpkins, Sanctum, And Lowriders – Chicago Reader

October 20, 2023 Published by AI

It’s scary how much fun stuff is happening right now! Spooky season never misses.

It Takes a Village (ITAV) Pumpkin Patch
Sat 10/21, includes a petting zoo, a bounce house, face painting, food, games, and a train, 4020 W. Division, free to attend, all-ages. Reservations required events.eventnoire.com/e/itav-pumpkin-patch-2023

For a classic autumn adventure appropriate for the whole family, look no further than the annual It Takes a Village (ITAV) Pumpkin Patch. Happening on Saturday, October 21, this free event includes a petting zoo, a bounce house, face painting, food, games, a train, and—oh yeah!—a pumpkin to take home and carve. ITAV is converting the parking lot of their Division Street location (4020 W. Division) into a pumpkin patch, but the fun sprawls across the block. The event happens from 10 AM-2 PM. Reservations are required to guarantee a pumpkin.

Sanctum Dark Music Festival
10/26-10/28, various locations, various ages, tickets start at $40. Full details and tickets at sanctumfest.com

Does a four-on-the-floor beat bring out your devilish side? Sanctum Dark Music Festival might be for you. Now in its second year, this festival is a celebration of macabre club culture, and it provides a reliable sampling of the hottest established and emerging acts in synth pop, darkwave, and electro-industrial. Running from Thursday, October 26 to Saturday, October 28, the fest opens with a lower-key “pre-party” at Epiphany Center for the Arts (201 S. Ashland) featuring Bestial Mouths, Un Hombre Solo, Blood Handsome, and Replicant. Things really heat up the next night at Thalia Hall and the adjoining Tack Room (1807 S. Allport) with Friday’s talent featuring Kontravoid, Buzz Kull, Tempers, Debby Friday, Madeline Goldstein, and Panic Priest. Saturday is also at Thalia Hall, and features performances by the Soft Moon, Geneva Jacuzzi, Pelada, Spike Hellis, SDH, and Conjunto Primitivo. Events at Thalia Hall are for those 17 years old and up, and Tack Room and Epiphany events are 21+.

If you check out our music section, you’ll see my impassioned plea to experience Geneva Jacuzzi, but every night promises at least one act that will delight you, if you’re into music you can dance to in black latex. Speaking of which, this year’s master of ceremonies—er, sacrilege—is Chicago’s favorite rubber-clad naughty feline Wildcat Shadow. Tickets start at $40 and go up based on the night with two- and three-night passes available.

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

July 3, 2023 Published by AI

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.

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.

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12 Things To Do In Chicago After Dark

January 9, 2023 Published by AI

Compared to other sleepless cities, like Las Vegas and New York, Chicago may not be the most obvious destination for late-night revelry, but the Second City is really second to none when it comes to past-your-bedtime fun. During the day, this mighty metropolis is well known for its world-class museums, festivals, shopping, parks, and restaurants. Come sunset, the city continues to awe. Under the twinkling glow of one of the country’s best skylines, you’ll find all manner of activities and attractions worth staying up for, from bougie billiards and after-hours museums to sleight of hand with a side of goat cheese. The all-night entertainment isn’t confined to summer, either. Just because the winter weather outside is often frightful doesn’t make nightlife in Chicago any less action-packed—plus there’s the added bonus of “after dark” in winter meaning “any time after, like 4:30 pm.” Which means more time to partake in any of these 12 things to do in Chicago after dark.

Game Room | Photo by Clayton Hauck

Pair billiards with fried chicken sandwiches

Loop
Bocce gets a serious glow up at Game Room, a retro-chic billiards bar nestled inside the Chicago Athletic Association hotel downtown. A far cry from the endearingly dusty dive bar stereotypes, this modestly dubbed bar is a sprawling adult playground filled with classic games like bocce, chess, shuffleboard, and checkers—all served up with food and drink menus that go far beyond the call of checkers duty. Owned by the same folks behind some of Chicago’s most beloved late-night haunts, like Parson’s Chicken & Fish and Lonesome Rose, you’ll find crowd-pleasing snacks like Parson’s fried chicken sandwiches, Lonesome Rose beef tacos, whitefish patty melts, and foot-long hot dogs, plus frozen Malort cocktails (if you know you know) and other classic-inspired tipples. It’s game on until 11 pm Monday – Thursday, and until 2 am Friday – Saturday.

Empty Bottle

See a free late-night show

Ukrainian Village
Late-night live music is a rite of passage in Chicago, and while there are always new venues popping up all over town, there’s always something nostalgic about revisiting an old haunt. For the most heartwarming, intoxicating blast from the past, head to the Empty Bottle, a Ukrainian Village institution that’s been pumping out live shows and dirt-cheap beer since 1992.

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Chicago Celebrates Unofficial Start To Summer With Event-Packed Weekend

May 29, 2022 Published by AI

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.

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

March 14, 2021 Published by AI

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.,

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Best Halloween Events For Kids In Chicago And Suburbs

March 11, 2021 Published by AI

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

Address: 601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg
Cost: $24.99-plus

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

Address: 200 S. Rand Road, Lake Zurich
Cost: $23.99/ages 12-plus, $15.99/children ages 3-12, free for children 2 and under

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

Address: Woodfield Mall, 5 Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg
Cost: $27.99/general admission

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

Address: 37W955 Big Timber Road, Elgin
Cost: Prices vary

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.

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Tag: food

The 50 Best Cities In The World For 2024

The Ultimate Guide To Having Fun In Chicago Without Any Booze

Memorial Day Weekend In Chicago | Fireworks, Things To Do, Events & Parades

The 18 All-Time Greatest Things To Do In Chicago

Pumpkins, Sanctum, And Lowriders – Chicago Reader

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

12 Things To Do In Chicago After Dark

Chicago Celebrates Unofficial Start To Summer With Event-Packed Weekend

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

Best Halloween Events For Kids In Chicago And Suburbs

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