Enjoy the sounds of the holiday on the biggest scale ever at the 52nd annual Tuba Christmas at the historic Palmer House Hotel on December 20, 2025. Tuba players from around the world will descend upon the Grand and State Ballroom in the … [Read More...]
Latest Deals and Events

Popeyes offers $5 Faves Menu with four popular choices
Popeyes is starting off the year strong with lots of value for diners on a budget. The new limited-time value menu makes it easier for customers to enjoy the popular chicken restaurant’s bold flavors without breaking the … [Read More...]

New Year’s Rockin’ Eve in Chicago
For the first time ever, the iconic Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve will feature Chicago's midnight countdown on the country's most-watched New Year's Eve Broadcast. Chicago will host the free New Year's Eve countdown on the Chicago Riverwalk on … [Read More...]

Kids eat free at IHOP in December
Parents are always looking for ways to stretch their budget. And this family-friendly offer from IHOP will definitely make families joyous and merry this holiday season. Take a break from shopping and take the kids to IHOP for a frugal feast … [Read More...]

Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration and Marketplace
Chicago celebrates the seven-day, African American holiday of Kwanzaa with performances, plays, story-times and festivals throughout the city. Head to the Washington Park refectory for a free day of music, cultural experiences and a marketplace with … [Read More...]

Music Box Annual Christmas Sing A long
Celebrate the holiday season in the old school style with classic Christmas movies and a fun-filled sing-along. One of Chicago's most unique holiday traditions is enjoying classic Hollywood holiday movies, singing along to the beloved tunes and … [Read More...]

Skate in the Clouds at Peninsula Sky Rink
Ice skating is a beloved Chicago winter tradition with rinks all over the city but one of the most scenic skating experiences is at The Peninsula Chicago's Sky Rink, perched above the Magnificent Mile with sparkling lights and pine trees. The rink is … [Read More...]

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 … [Read More...]

Shake Shack offers free Shack Sandwich every week in December
Shake Shack is definitely making the holidays a little merrier for hungry bargain hunters! This December, the popular eatery is gifting customers a FREE Shack Sandwich — with a new burger or sandwich available every week. It’s the perfect … [Read More...]
Today’s Free & Cheap Events in Chicago
Featured Events

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 … [Read More...]

Get Free Stuff on Your Birthday
It's your special day so you deserve a gift. Lots of companies offer free stuff for your birthday. In some cases, … [Read More...]

Free or cheap things to do in Chicago this week
If you’re looking for a way to entertain yourself, your family and your friends in Chicago without spending a lot of … [Read More...]

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Free Days
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Free Days Where: Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 North Cannon Drive, … [Read More...]













Chicago on the Cheap is a member of Living on the Cheap, a network of websites published by frugalistas, journalists and consumer advocates. Find practical advice on saving money on groceries, travel and shopping, plus tips from our experts on how to live the good life for less at 