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 diverse events, so choose your favorite. … [Read more...] about Free and cheap things to do this weekend in Chicago
Free events
Free Lincoln Park Zoo Fall Fest
Celebrate the joys of autumn in the fun-filled setting of Lincoln Park Zoo during the tenth annual Lincoln Park Zoo Fall Fest, September 25-November 1, 2026. Step into the vibrant world of pumpkins, harvest mazes and fall photo ops during this family-friendly event. Admission to the zoo is … [Read more...] about Free Lincoln Park Zoo Fall Fest
Jazz in the Court
The Hyde Park neighborhood celebrates South Side jazz traditions with free outdoor concerts in Harper Court on the first Fridays of the summer months. Enjoy free live music in the heart of the historic community This year's dates are June 5, 2026. July 10, 2026, August 7, 2026, and September … [Read more...] about Jazz in the Court
Edgewater Music Fest
Visit the vibrant Edgewater community to experience a free, three-day festival of live music, food and elite vibes, during the annual Edgewater Music Fest from August 28-30, 2026. Enjoy two stages featuring over 35 local music acts, 100 vendors selling art, crafts, jewelry, and clothes and an … [Read more...] about Edgewater Music Fest
Free Chicago Jazz Festival
Since 1974, jazz fans from all over the globe have flocked to Chicago for the annual Chicago Jazz Festival, which showcases jazz legends as well as up-and-coming musicians. This year's four-day festival will run from September 3-6 2026. Celebrate jazz in all its forms in Millennium Park and … [Read more...] about Free Chicago Jazz Festival
Taste of Greektown
Chicago's largest celebration of Hellenic culture returns for the 36th annual Taste of Greektown on August 28--30, 2026. Head to the historic Greektown neighborhood to savor Greek food, music and warm hospitality. The hallmark of Taste of Greektown is sampling dishes from the … [Read more...] about Taste of Greektown
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 26, August 28 and September 27, 2026, at St. Moses the Black Parish. Hosted by the Southside Jazz Coalition, this popular community concert features well-known jazz … [Read more...] about Jazz ‘N on The Steps
Chicago House Music Festival and Conference
As the birthplace of house music, Chicago always celebrates and honors this influential art form. The Chicago House Music Festival and Conference will bring the music, history and culture of house music into focus on August 27-30, 2026. The four days of free events will feature live … [Read more...] about Chicago House Music Festival and Conference
Chicago SummerDance
One of the city’s most beloved dance traditions, Chicago Summerdance, returns to the Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park as well as neighborhood parks for open-air dancing, live music and dance lessons all summer long, through August 29, 2026. Every Wednesday through Saturday of each week, … [Read more...] about Chicago SummerDance
Free Chicago Museum Days for Summer
Summertime Chicago supplies so many non-stop activities and adventures that it's easy to overlook excursions that are available all year round. But Chicago's world-class museums are popular at any time, so it's helpful to consider Chicago museum free days during the summer months. Check out these … [Read more...] about Free Chicago Museum Days for Summer
Free Centennial Wheel Rides through Labor Day
Whirling around Navy Pier's famous Centennial Wheel and viewing the iconic Chicago skyline is a beloved summer tradition. Thanks to the foggy weather on July 4th, visitors can ride the Centennial Wheel for free through September 7, 2026. The popular Chicago summer season just became sweeter … [Read more...] about Free Centennial Wheel Rides through Labor Day
Free Outdoor Movie Series at Navy Pier
Catch movies in the shadow of Lake Michigan and Navy Pier all summer long. The Polk Bros Park at Navy Pier will host a series of free, family-friendly movies throughout the Summer. Movies at the Pier will kick off every Monday at 6:00 pm through August 31, 2026. The Lake Stage in Polk Bros. … [Read more...] about Free Outdoor Movie Series at Navy Pier
