Summer nights just got more exciting with the start of the weekly Wrigleyville Night Markets at Gallagher Way, kicking off on July 2, 2026, through September 10, 2026. Enjoy strolling through over 50 vendors displaying vintage clothing, jewelry, home goods and lots of unexpected finds. … [Read more...] about Wrigleyville Night Market
Free events
New Greektown Public Art Exhibit
Chicago's historic Greektown neighborhood will introduce a new public art exhibit, "We The People," on June 9, 2026, along Halsted Street between Madison and Van Buren Streets. Celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, 'We The People: Life, Liberty and the … [Read more...] about New Greektown Public Art Exhibit
Chicago Full Moon Fire Jam
The full moon is celebrated in many ways in different cultures but in Chicago, fire dancers and percussion are the highlights of the annual summer Full Moon Jam. Glowing along the shores of Lake Michigan, this year's full moon jams will take place on June 13, June 29, July 4, July 29, … [Read more...] about Chicago Full Moon Fire Jam
Live on the Lake Free Summer Concerts
Music fans can enjoy the beauty of lakeside views as well as live melodies during the free weekly Live on the Lake summer concert series at the Navy Pier Beer Garden. every weekend, through September 7, 2026. Grab a cold one from Tangled Roots Brewery or nibble on nachos or a brat while … [Read more...] about Live on the Lake Free Summer Concerts
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 23, 2026, through September 5, 2026. 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
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 from June 15 to August 6, 2026. The free concerts will run on Monday and Thursday evenings. The concerts feature a diverse range … [Read more...] about Free Millennium Park Summer Music Series
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 Millennium Park Film Series, running from June 30 to August 18, 2026. Stroll into the Jay Pritzker Pavilion and watch classic, … [Read more...] about Free movies at Millennium Park
Grant Park Music Festival
Enjoy the soothing strains of classical compositions as well as contemporary and Broadway tunes at the annual Grant Park Music Festival. This free summer concert series kicks off on June 10, 2026, and runs through August 15, 2026. Sit back in the beauty of the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium … [Read more...] about Grant Park Music Festival
Maxwell Street Market
There's no Chicago market more iconic than Maxwell Street Market. This year, the market runs on select Sundays, May 17 through October 4, 2026, 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
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 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
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
