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
Free events
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 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
Free Obama Center Activities
The Obama Presidential Center has drawn visitors from all over the world who want to discover the history and legacy of the country's first Black President. The museum and its interactive exhibits capture a lot of attention but the campus also hosts free events open to the public. … [Read more...] about Free Obama Center Activities
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
Chinatown Summer Fair
The dynamic colors and traditions of Chinese culture will be the highlight of the Chinatown Summer Fair, scheduled for July 25-26, 2026. This free, family-friendly event offers food, arts and crafts and entertainment for everyone in the historic Chinatown neighborhood. The fair … [Read more...] about Chinatown Summer Fair
Fiesta Del Sol
The largest Latino fest in the country returns to the Pilsen neighborhood on July 23-26, 2026, with the highly anticipated Fiesta Del Sol. This year's festival commemorates 53 years of celebrating Latino art, music, food and traditions with a four-day, family-friendly event. You'll … [Read more...] about Fiesta Del Sol
Free Movies at Gallagher Way
Enjoy the fun of viewing movies al fresco during the Gallagher Way Movie Nights. The screenings will feature family-friendly themes and popular classics on Wednesday nights through September 30, 2026. The lineup of all-ages movies includes "Matilda," "Black Panther," and "High … [Read more...] about Free Movies at Gallagher Way
City News Cafe Free Concert Series
Enjoy the increasingly rare experience of browsing through magazines, newspapers and books, without a digital device in sight. The analog adventures continue with live musical concerts during the City News Cafe concert series on weekends through July 26, 2026. Head to this old school treasure … [Read more...] about City News Cafe Free Concert Series
Visit the Obama Presidential Center for Free
Chicago and the rest of the world are poised to visit the country's newest and most innovative presidential library. The Obama Presidential Center stands on 19.3 acres within Jackson Park on the South Side of the city, ready to welcome visitors and tell the riveting political and personal story … [Read more...] about Visit the Obama Presidential Center for Free
