Welcome spring at the traditional German celebration of the season, Maifest Chicago. The 26th annual festival runs from May 29 -31, 2026, 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 dancing … [Read more...] about Celebrate German Culture at Chicago Maifest
Expired
Andersonville Midsommarfest
One of the most beloved summer events is when the Andersonville neighborhood celebrates its Swedish heritage and culture with the 60th annual Andersonville Midsommarfest, from June 12 through June 14, 2026. One of Chicago's oldest and most anticipated street festivals, Andersonville … [Read more...] about Andersonville Midsommarfest
Free American Writers Festival
Celebrate the breadth and depth of the art of writing at the third annual American Writers Festival on June 6-7, 2026, at the American Writers Museum and the Harold Washington Library Center. The weekend of free programming will feature more than 90 writers. Sponsored by the … [Read more...] about Free American Writers Festival
Spring 2026 brings gift card bonuses for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduation and more
Spring brings warm sunshine, cool breezes and lots of reasons to celebrate — including Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduations, weddings and more. And, no matter the occasion, one of the most appreciated presents is a gift card. It’s quick and easy for the giver and lets the recipient enjoy … [Read more...] about Spring 2026 brings gift card bonuses for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduation and more
Free Docent Led Tours at National Puerto Rican Museum
Discover the dynamic culture of Puerto Rico and Chicago's strong link to the island by taking a free docent-led tour of the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture in the Humboldt Park neighborhood. The tour is scheduled for May 30, 2026. Roam through the historic National … [Read more...] about Free Docent Led Tours at National Puerto Rican Museum
Things To Do In Chicago in May
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
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 23, 2026. Head to Daley Plaza in the Chicago Loop to witness the moving Wreath Laying … [Read more...] about Chicago Memorial Day Parade
Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest
For many neighborhood festival fans, the Summer fest season officially kicks off with the cover band glory of the Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival, set for May 22-24, 2026. The 40th annual celebration of community and local musicians draws enthusiastic crowds to the streets near the … [Read more...] about Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest
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 29th annual edition continues the tradition from May 15-17, 2026, 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
Early Bird Chicago Boat Cruises for $20
It's that time of year! The season to enjoy Chicago views of gorgeous Lake Michigan has officially arrived and there's no better way to take in all the watery beauty than with a boat cruise. Chicago Party Boat is offering discounted Friday Night Skyline Cruises every Friday in May, May 1- 29, … [Read more...] about Early Bird Chicago Boat Cruises for $20
Auntie Anne’s Golden Pretzel Pass ‘untwists’ free pretzel every week for one year
Don’t get it twisted, this is an amazing deal for pretzel lovers! One of the best places to enjoy a fresh, hot pretzel is at Auntie Anne’s. And, for a limited time, the popular pretzel shop is offering a Golden Pretzel Pass for 52 weeks of salty (or sugary) pretzel goodness. It’s the perfect … [Read more...] about Auntie Anne’s Golden Pretzel Pass ‘untwists’ free pretzel every week for one year
Sor Juana Festival Events
The annual Sor Juana Festival honors the historic Mexican writer, feminist and nun, Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, with a dynamic line-up of artists, writers, filmmakers and singers at the National Museum of Mexican Art through April 29, 2026. Check out some of the exciting free … [Read more...] about Sor Juana Festival Events
