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
Chicago Rubber Ducky Derby
Relive the childhood joy of floating rubber ducks and watch 60,000 rubber ducks get dumped into and race down the Chicago River during the annual Chicago Ducky Derby on August 7, 2025, at the Columbus Drive Bridge. The festivities include entertainment for the entire family, … [Read more...] about Chicago Rubber Ducky Derby
Free Chicago Air and Water Show
One of the most anticipated events of the Summer is the thrilling Chicago Air and Water Show. For over six decades, Chicagoans have witnessed the exciting spectacle of pilots and parachutists performing daring tricks over Lake Michigan. The largest show of its kind in the U.S., this … [Read more...] about Free Chicago Air and Water Show
Hyde Park Handmade Artisan Bazaar
For ten years, the free Hyde Park Handmade Artisan Bazaar has supplied a monthly pop-up of hand-crafted goodies beloved by loyal customers. Don't miss the fun at the summer markets on July 20 and August 17, 2025 This eclectic indoor market serves up one-of-a-kind finds like funky … [Read more...] about Hyde Park Handmade Artisan Bazaar
Jazz ‘N on The Steps
Take in the smooth rhythms of jazz during Summer evenings at the Jazz' N on The Steps free event on July 27, 2025, at St. Moses the Black Parish. Hosted by the Southside Jazz Coalition, this popular community concert features well-known jazz vocalists and musicians performing on the … [Read more...] about Jazz ‘N on The Steps
Andersonville Vintage Market
The Chicago shopping event of the summer returns; the fifth annual Andersonville Vintage Market will supply treasures from every era on select Sundays on July 20, August 17. September 21 and October 19, 2025. Discover one-of-a-kind antiques, jewelry, furniture, art, clothing and more at … [Read more...] about Andersonville Vintage Market
Free movies at Millennium Park
There's nothing better than watching a movie al fresco with a light picnic on the lush Millennium Park lawn. This Chicago summertime tradition is back with the Millenium Park Film Series, running from July 1 to August 19, 2025. Stroll into the Jay Pritzker Pavilion and watch … [Read more...] about Free movies at Millennium Park
Free Millennium Park Summer Music Series
The essence of Summer in Chicago is listening to free concerts in the architectural beauty of Millennium Park. The beloved Millennium Park Summer Music Series soars away from June 26 to August 7, 2025. The free concerts will run on Monday and Thursday evenings. The concerts feature a diverse … [Read more...] about Free Millennium Park Summer Music Series
Free Tuesdays on the Terrace at the MCA
Chicago's acclaimed Museum of Contemporary Art is not just the place to view cutting-edge art pieces, it's also one of the most popular spots to hear free Summer jazz concerts. The beloved Tuesdays on the Terrace music series returns from June 24 to August 26, 2025. Spreading a … [Read more...] about Free Tuesdays on the Terrace at the MCA
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
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
