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
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Randolph Street Market Festival
One of the most beloved events of the early summer season is Chicago's signature open-air market, the Randolph Street Market Festival. Filled with vintage treasures, live bands, food and fun, the market opens on May 23-24, 2026, in the West Loop. Celebrating 23 years, the Randolph Street … [Read more...] about Randolph Street Market Festival
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
View Cherry Blossoms in Chicago
The delicate blooms of cherry blossom trees are a beloved marker of the spring season but you don't have to travel to Japan to enjoy them. Chicago's cherry blossom season typically runs from late April to early May in Jackson Park. Head to Hyde Park and the Garden of the … [Read more...] about View Cherry Blossoms in Chicago
Lincoln Park Conservatory Spring Flower Show
Even though the winter still lingers in Chicago, you can pretend Spring is already here at the annual Lincoln Park Conservatory Spring Flower Show. The 2026 show is called "Jewels of Spring" and runs through May 10, 2026. Take in the beauty of flowers and plants and the color … [Read more...] about Lincoln Park Conservatory Spring Flower Show
Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
Enjoy all that's jolly and bright during the festive season at the beloved Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier. Slide, skate, ride and soak up holiday fun at this indoor fest from December 5, 2025, to January 4, 2026. Head to Navy Pier's Festival Hall and take in the 420-foot holiday … [Read more...] about Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
Andersonville Viking Pub Crawl
The Andersonville neighborhood's historic Swedish roots will be on full display during the sixth annual Viking Pub Crawl down Clark Street on November 17, 2024. Hundreds of revelers will don viking gear and grab a commemorative glass as they visit a dozen bars and restaurants offering specials … [Read more...] about Andersonville Viking Pub Crawl
Autumn Fest at Gallagher Way
The pleasures of the season will fill the field around Wrigley Stadium in celebration of the cooler temperatures and bright foliage, Autumn Fest at Gallagher Way will run from October to November 2024. The Autumn Fest includes activities and offerings like seasonally themed food and drinks, … [Read more...] about Autumn Fest at Gallagher Way
Chicago Lowrider Festival
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a visit to the Latine cultural event that showcases the Lowrider movement at the 13th annual Slow & Low: Chicago Lowrider Festival on October 12, 2024, at Navy Pier. At the festival, you can view more than 250 elaborately customized cars, as well … [Read more...] about Chicago Lowrider Festival
Beverly Art Walk
Explore the vibrant arts community of the historic Beverly/Morgan Park neighborhood at the 11th annual Beverly Art Walk on September 28, 2024. Hosted by the Beverly Arts Alliance, the Beverly Art Walk is a free, family-friendly event that spotlights local art and music. … [Read more...] about Beverly Art Walk
Taste of Chicago
The legendary summer food festival that spawned dozens of similar events across the city, the Taste of Chicago, returns to Grant Park for a showcase of Chicago's culinary diversity, on September 6-8, 2024. After a series of neighborhood food pop-ups, the Taste of Chicago opens in all its … [Read more...] about Taste of Chicago
