The largest street festival in the Midwest returns to the bustling Lakeview neighborhood for a three-day celebration of music, pride and community. Northalsted Market Days is scheduled for August 7-9, 2026. The 44th annual festival kicks off with over 250 vendors, five stages and all-day … [Read more...] about Northalsted Market Days
Entertainment
Free Obama Center Activities
The Obama Presidential Center has drawn visitors from all over the world who want to discover the history and legacy of the country's first Black President. The museum and its interactive exhibits capture a lot of attention but the campus also hosts free events open to the public. … [Read more...] about Free Obama Center Activities
Free Outdoor Movie Series at Navy Pier
Catch movies in the shadow of Lake Michigan and Navy Pier all summer long. The Polk Bros Park at Navy Pier will host a series of free, family-friendly movies throughout the Summer. Movies at the Pier will kick off every Monday at 6:00 pm through August 31, 2026. The Lake Stage in Polk Bros. … [Read more...] about Free Outdoor Movie Series at Navy Pier
Bronzeville Art District Trolley Tour
From June through September, the historic Bronzeville neighborhood pulses with excitement during the annual Bronzeville Art District Trolley Tour on the third Friday of every month. Art lovers hop double-decker buses to visit the community's three main galleries: Faie Afrikan Art, Gallery … [Read more...] about Bronzeville Art District Trolley Tour
Free Movies at Gallagher Way
Enjoy the fun of viewing movies al fresco during the Gallagher Way Movie Nights. The screenings will feature family-friendly themes and popular classics on Wednesday nights through September 30, 2026. The lineup of all-ages movies includes "Matilda," "Black Panther," and "High … [Read more...] about Free Movies at Gallagher Way
Harper Court Summer Music Series
Hyde Park sizzles in the summer and the popular neighborhood will get even more energized during the Harper Court Summer Music Series, set for July 9, August 6 and September 10, 2026. A summer tradition since 2015, the free outdoor concerts feature local musicians and bring a festive … [Read more...] about Harper Court Summer Music Series
Free Tuesdays on the Terrace at the MCA
Chicago's acclaimed Museum of Contemporary Art is not just the place to view cutting-edge art pieces but it's also one of the most popular spots to hear free Summer jazz concerts. The beloved Tuesdays on the Terrace music series returns from June 16 to August 25, … [Read more...] about Free Tuesdays on the Terrace at the MCA
Wrigleyville Night Market
Summer nights just got more exciting with the start of the weekly Wrigleyville Night Markets at Gallagher Way, kicking off on July 2, 2026, through September 10, 2026. Enjoy strolling through over 50 vendors displaying vintage clothing, jewelry, home goods and lots of unexpected finds. … [Read more...] about Wrigleyville Night Market
New Greektown Public Art Exhibit
Chicago's historic Greektown neighborhood will introduce a new public art exhibit, "We The People," on June 9, 2026, along Halsted Street between Madison and Van Buren Streets. Celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, 'We The People: Life, Liberty and the … [Read more...] about New Greektown Public Art Exhibit
Chicago Full Moon Fire Jam
The full moon is celebrated in many ways in different cultures but in Chicago, fire dancers and percussion are the highlights of the annual summer Full Moon Jam. Glowing along the shores of Lake Michigan, this year's full moon jams will take place on June 13, June 29, July 4, July 29, … [Read more...] about Chicago Full Moon Fire Jam
Live on the Lake Free Summer Concerts
Music fans can enjoy the beauty of lakeside views as well as live melodies during the free weekly Live on the Lake summer concert series at the Navy Pier Beer Garden. every weekend, through September 7, 2026. Grab a cold one from Tangled Roots Brewery or nibble on nachos or a brat while … [Read more...] about Live on the Lake Free Summer Concerts
Summer Fireworks at Navy Pier
The spectacular fireworks display at Navy Pier is a much-anticipated Chicago hallmark. The twice-weekly Summer Fireworks show runs from May 23, 2026, through September 5, 2026. The dramatic fireworks spectacle features synchronized music and vivid bursts of color that can be viewed for miles. … [Read more...] about Summer Fireworks at Navy Pier
