Celebrate Poetry Month and all the notable literary stars that Chicago has birthed at the 27th annual Chicago Poetry Fest at the Harold Washington Library on April 27, 20226. Enjoy a day of free poetry events for all ages and backgrounds at this engaging event. Attend poetry workshops, listen … [Read more...] about Chicago Poetry Festival
Free events
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
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
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
Wicker Park First Fridays Art Walk
Stroll around one of Chicago's hippest and most creative neighborhoods while absorbing public artworks and galleries during the Wicker Park Bucktown First Fridays Art Walk on April 3, May 1 and June 5, 2026. Art lovers will discover murals, sculptures, galleries and pop-up art spaces … [Read more...] about Wicker Park First Fridays Art Walk
Chicago Hosts International Jazz Day with Free Concerts and Events
Commemorating 15 years of jazz music's role in fostering peace and intercultural dialogue, International Jazz Day is celebrated in 190 countries around the globe. On April 30, 2026, Chicago will host an all-star global concert, directed by the city's own and International Jazz Day founder, Herbie … [Read more...] about Chicago Hosts International Jazz Day with Free Concerts and Events
Free Movies at Beyond Chicago Film Fest
View an eye-opening array of horror and psychological thrillers at Beyond Chicago, the biggest genre film festival in the U.S., at the iconic Music Box Theatre on April 2-5, 2026. Watch 30 feature movies from all over the world, including classics and contemporary films, at this … [Read more...] about Free Movies at Beyond Chicago Film Fest
Garfield Park Conservatory Spring Flower Show
Welcome the colors and excitement of the spring season with the annual Spring Flower Show at Garfield Park Conservatory. This year's show is called "Showers of Flowers" and runs through May 10, 2026. Wander through over 80 hanging baskets that overflow with fragrant and brightly colored … [Read more...] about Garfield Park Conservatory Spring Flower Show
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
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
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
