With spring weather warming up more consistently and the lakefront thawing into lovely aquamarine waves, May is a favorite time to explore Chicago before the large summer tourist crowds arrive. Consider these free or low-cost activities for your Chicago May adventures. Besides the essential … [Read more...] about Things To Do In Chicago in May
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Ina Mae Tavern Music Festival
Celebrate the high-energy spirit of New Orleans with live blues, jazz and dance rhythms, Creole food, cocktails and a joyful time in the Wicker Park neighborhood at Ina Mae Tavern Music Festival on April 24-27, 2024. Prepare for a non-stop four-day party at Ina Mae's Music Festival, which … [Read more...] about Ina Mae Tavern Music Festival
Chicago Memorial Day Parade
The annual Chicago Memorial Day Parade and Wreath Laying Ceremony honors all men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country. This year's parade is scheduled for May 24, 2025. Head to Daley Plaza in the Chicago Loop to witness the moving Wreath Laying … [Read more...] about Chicago Memorial Day Parade
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 24, 2025, through August 30, 2025. 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
Mexico Fest at Navy Pier
The colors, music, dance and traditions of Mexico will light up Navy Pier during the exciting three-day events of Mexico Fest, scheduled for May 2-4, 2025. Dance along to noted dance troupes like Ballet Folklorico de Chicago and move to the rhythms of bands like Mariachi Estrellas de Chicago … [Read more...] about Mexico Fest at Navy Pier
Pullman Railroad Days
Explore the historic world of railcars and their glamorous history during Chicago's biggest rail-themed event, Pullman Railroad Days, on May 17 and 18, 2025, in the Pullman neighborhood. Step inside elegant Pullman railroad cars from the early 20th century and learn about passenger trains, … [Read more...] about Pullman Railroad Days
Discount Tickets for Saturday Night at the Zoo
Experience the sights and sounds of the zoo after dark, visiting animals and sipping cocktails at this adults-only evening event, Saturday Night at Lincoln Park Zoo on May 10, 2025. Stroll through the grounds of Lincoln Park Zoo at night and enjoy special after-hours viewing of the … [Read more...] about Discount Tickets for Saturday Night at the Zoo
Maxwell Street Market
There's no Chicago market more iconic than Maxwell Street Market. This year, the market runs on select Sundays, May 18 through October 5, 2025, 10 am -3 pm. Open since 1912, this bustling marketplace is much more than just a place to shop, it's a Chicago cultural mecca. Maxwell Street … [Read more...] about Maxwell Street Market
Chicago Mayfest in Lincoln Park
Beer, food and cover bands are the hallmarks of the city's first festival of the summer, Chicago Mayfest. This year's 28th annual edition continues the tradition from May 16-18, 2025, in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. This year's fest will kick off at Armitage and Sheffield and … [Read more...] about Chicago Mayfest in Lincoln Park
Mole De Mayo Festival in Pilsen
Head to the historic Mexican neighborhood of Pilsen to explore the joys of the traditional chocolate-based dish of mole, at the 16th annual Mole De Mayo fest from May 24-26, 2025. Restaurants and chefs will offer their best recipes for the rich sauce served over enchiladas or meats … [Read more...] about Mole De Mayo Festival in Pilsen
Celebrate German Culture at Chicago Maifest
Welcome spring at the traditional German celebration of the season, Maifest Chicago. The 26th annual festival runs from May 29 to June 1, 2025, in the heart of Chicago's German community in Lincoln Square. Chow down on lots of German food and witness a traditional keg tapping, maypole … [Read more...] about Celebrate German Culture at Chicago Maifest
Andersonville Farmers Market
Wander through one of the city's most colorful markets at Andersonville Farmers Market, running from May 14 to October 22, 2025. Featuring more than 50 vendors, everything sold at the Andersonville Farmers Market is grown or produced within a 200-mile radius, offering the community access to fresh, … [Read more...] about Andersonville Farmers Market
