Spend the evening creating collective restoration during an engaging program of storytelling, discussions and healing during the 10th annual National Day of Racial Healing, on January 20, 2026. Connect with this year's theme of "We Carry The Light" by sharing a story, poem, song or … [Read more...] about National Day of Racial Healing Free Events
Free events
Free and cheap things to do this weekend in Chicago
Looking for something fun to do this weekend in Chicago? There are tons of free and cheap events in the city. Here’s our list of the top free events, discounts, and deals to have fun around town on your Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. There are many diversified events, so choose your … [Read more...] about Free and cheap things to do this weekend in Chicago
Chicago Architecture Biennial
The city's most anticipated architecture event, the Chicago Architecture Biennial, unfolds this year with the theme, "SHIFT: Architecture in Times of Radical Change," featuring exhibits, panel discussions, films, performances, activations and events across the city through February 28, … [Read more...] about Chicago Architecture Biennial
Free Instagreeter Downtown Tours
Explore Chicago with a knowledgeable local as your guide. This free service matches visitors with enthusiastic, city-wise volunteers for one-hour guided walks around downtown. Instagreeter Loop Walks are available all year round. Let a friendly local give you an insider’s perspective of … [Read more...] about Free Instagreeter Downtown Tours
Free Polar Adventure Days
Explore the natural beauty of the winter season during the annual Polar Adventure Days on January 24, 2026. Bundle up and enjoy the chilly fun on the 119 acres of Northerly Island Park, located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Connect with nature during a day of … [Read more...] about Free Polar Adventure Days
New Greektown Public Art Exhibit
Chicago's historic Greektown neighborhood will introduce a new public art exhibit, "Flowering Grecian Urns," on June 5, 2025, along Halsted Street between Madison and Van Buren Streets. Inspired by Chloris, the Greek goddess of flowers, the large Grecian urn sculptures are … [Read more...] about New Greektown Public Art Exhibit
View Cherry Blossoms in Chicago
The delicate blooms of cherry blossoms 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
Handmade Market at Empty Bottle
Head to a classic Chicago tradition to supply your shopping for the holidays and beyond at Handmade Market at the Empty Bottle. This month's market opens on December 14, 2024, but the market returns on the second Saturday of the month through April 2025. Handmade Market connects the makers of … [Read more...] about Handmade Market at Empty Bottle
Free Pasta Dishes with Barilla Connection Kitchen Food Truck
Enjoy delicious pasta dishes while making a difference at the Barilla Connection Kitchen Food Truck, which will partner with Meals on Wheels to encourage volunteer sign-ups at the Merchandise Mart on December 6, 2024. Chase the freezing temperatures away with a warm bowl of pasta and consider … [Read more...] about Free Pasta Dishes with Barilla Connection Kitchen Food Truck
McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Glide under the sparkling beauty of the Chicago skyline at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park. The free rink is open from November 15, 2024, through February 2, 2025, weather permitting. Whirling around the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink under the city's official … [Read more...] about McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Mercado Navideno at Museum of Mexican Art
Add the colors and traditions of Mexico to your holiday shopping with a visit to the Mercado Navideno at the National Museum of Mexican Art on November 29-December 1, 2024. Explore hand-crafted gifts from Mexico including ornaments, nativity scenes, art, jewelry, apparel and toys. You won't have … [Read more...] about Mercado Navideno at Museum of Mexican Art
Free Time Out Market Fifth Anniversary Party
Join the all-day celebration for five years of food, drinks and events during the Fifth Anniversary Celebration of Time Out Market, on November 16, 2024. Enjoy food and drink specials and live DJs in the West Loop neighborhood. Head to Time Out Market for festivities filled … [Read more...] about Free Time Out Market Fifth Anniversary Party
