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
Free events
Buckingham Fountain Opening Day Events
Chicago's official start of the summer season always coincides with the spectacular splash of the first drops of the iconic Buckingham Fountain. This year's Switch on Summer Kick Off at Buckingham Fountain is set for May 10, 2025. Head to the fountain at 331 E. Randolph from 11:30 … [Read more...] about Buckingham Fountain Opening Day Events
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 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
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
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
Free events at Daley Plaza under the Picasso
One of the joys of summer in Chicago is experiencing the eclectic cultural events at Daley Plaza. Under the shade of the Picasso sculpture, artists and performers from around the world sing, dance and present cultural ceremonies that supply an exciting assortment of cultural discoveries for … [Read more...] about Free events at Daley Plaza under the Picasso
Free World Music Wednesday Concerts
The new season for World Music Wednesday has been announced! Every Wednesday, through June 25, 2025, at 8:00 pm, the Old Town School of Folk Music will host a free concert series, World Music Wednesdays, featuring musicians from all around the world. Culture and countries represented … [Read more...] about Free World Music Wednesday Concerts
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
Art on the Mart
Stroll through the Riverwalk for views of one of the world's largest digital art platforms. ART on THE MART displays contemporary art projections across the 2.5-acre facade of THE MART. The spring show opens on April 25, 2025, and runs through June 5, 2025. The spring projection … [Read more...] about Art on the Mart
