Explore the neoclassical beauty of the historic Chicago Cultural Center during free tours every Thursday and Friday. Discover the fascinating history and landmark status of one of Chicago's most beloved architectural treasures. Nicknamed the "People's Palace," the building opened in 1887 as the … [Read more...] about Free Chicago Cultural Center Tours
Art and Architecture
Chicago Black History Month Events
Black History Month is an anticipated annual event that was started in 1915 in Chicago by Carter G, Woodson and it continues to be an important avenue for celebrating African American achievements across the country. Chicago’s extensive African American cultural history supplies a rich … [Read more...] about Chicago Black History Month Events
Black Makers Market at Navy Pier
Celebrate Black History Month with a variety of products and gifts created by Black artisans at the Black Makers Market at Navy Pier, every Saturday and Sunday in February. Head to Navy Pier's family pavilion to browse through an exciting array of items created by Black artists and … [Read more...] about Black Makers Market at Navy Pier
Free Guided Tours of the Newberry Library
Opened in 1893, the Newberry Library is a Chicago historic and architectural treasure. Take a free guided tour and learn about the library's fascinating legacy and why it's so important to the city. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday in January, the Newberry offers an hour-long guided tour … [Read more...] about Free Guided Tours of the Newberry Library
The Promised Land Art Opening at Southside Community Art Center
The Great Migration, a mass exodus that involved approximately six million Black people migrating from the South to the North from 1910 to 1970, was one of the largest movements of people in U.S. history. With jobs, social opportunities and basic rights denied in the Jim Crow South, Chicago was … [Read more...] about The Promised Land Art Opening at Southside Community Art Center
Free Festival del Arte Popular at National Museum of Mexican Art
Start your holiday shopping early by checking out the masterful work of Mexican artisans at the annual Festival del Arte Popular at the National Museum of Mexican Art on October 14-23, 2022. Witness live demonstrations of intricate Mexican folk art and meet artists from all over … [Read more...] about Free Festival del Arte Popular at National Museum of Mexican Art
Open House Chicago
Explore the architectural and cultural treasures that Chicago is famous for during the annual Open House Chicago events. Visit over 120 sites in more than 20 neighborhoods across the city during the in-person activities on October 15-16, 2022. Go behind the scenes in members-only clubs, private … [Read more...] about Open House Chicago
West Town Art Walk
Enjoy visual art, music, and fashion while browsing restaurants and shops along Chicago Avenue during the annual West Town Art Walk on September 23-24, 2022. The West Town neighborhood bubbles with color, food and art in all forms during this popular free event. The West Town arts district … [Read more...] about West Town Art Walk
West Loop Art Fest
Stroll into the trendy West Loop neighborhood for four blocks of eye-catching art for the fourth annual West Loop Art Fest on September 3-4, 2022. The free event supplies a full weekend of fun in the Fulton Market district. Browse through dozens of art displays … [Read more...] about West Loop Art Fest
Free Tuesdays at Museum of Contemporary Art
Free Tuesdays at the Museum of Contemporary Art for Illinois residents. Where: Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., 312-397-4010 When: 10am to 9pm Tuesdays; 10am to 5pm Wednesdays-Sundays; Closed Mondays. Free Tuesdays for Illinois residents with proof of residency are back … [Read more...] about Free Tuesdays at Museum of Contemporary Art
Free interactive art exhibit, bowling and bocce at Pinstripes
Celebrate the first day of summer with an interactive art exhibit, "Chicago Looks Good on You," as well as free bowling and bocce at Pinstripes River East on June 21, 2022. A series of life-sized portraits of people wearing Chicago landmarks the Centennial Wheel, Buckingham Fountain and Cloud … [Read more...] about Free interactive art exhibit, bowling and bocce at Pinstripes
Celebrate local arts and culture at the Activate event
Immerse yourself in the creativity and excitement of Chicago's arts and culture scene during the Activate event on Thursday, June 30, 2022, from 5-10 pm. The LaSalle corridor between LaSalle and Quincy streets will burst with color and activity as artists and performers offer up different art … [Read more...] about Celebrate local arts and culture at the Activate event