The Midwest's largest literary festival returns to Chicago's historic Printer's Row neighborhood in the South Loop with the Printer's Row Lit Fest on September 6 and 7, 2025. Stretching out over five blocks, the Printers Row Lit Fest features more than 100 booksellers, interactive … [Read more...] about Free Printers Row Lit Fest
family friendly
Bud Billiken Parade
Head to Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood to witness the second largest parade in the U.S. after the Rose Bowl; the historic Bud Billiken Parade celebrates 96 years of African American music, pageantry and community on August 9, 2025. Filled with over 200 elaborate marching bands, drill … [Read more...] about Bud Billiken Parade
Retro on Roscoe Festival
Go back in time and enjoy oldies and throwback fashion at the 28th annual Retro on Roscoe festival on September 5-7, 2025, in the Roscoe Village neighborhood. Groove to music on three stages, including a family stage, within a six-block stretch of Roscoe Village. Enjoy music from … [Read more...] about Retro on Roscoe Festival
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
Jeff Fest Arts and Music Festival
The Jefferson Park neighborhood on Chicago's Northwest side will come alive with music and creative arts during the 24th annual Jeff Fest, on August 1-2, 2025. The sprawling seven acres of Jefferson Memorial Park will host this beloved community event, which features tribute bands, … [Read more...] about Jeff Fest Arts and Music Festival
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
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 July 10, August 8 and September 8, … [Read more...] about Chicago Full Moon Fire Jam
Barrio Arts Festival
The signature festival of the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture, the Barrio Arts Fest, returns to Humboldt Park on July 12-13,2025. Immerse yourself in the richness of Puerto Rican culture during this highly anticipated free festival on the grounds of the … [Read more...] about Barrio Arts Festival
Bronzeville Art District Trolley Tour
From June through September, the historic Bronzeville neighborhood pulses with excitement during the annual Bronzeville Art District Trolley Tour on the third Friday of every month. Art lovers hop double-decker buses to visit the community's four main galleries: Faie Afrikan Art, Gallery … [Read more...] about Bronzeville Art District Trolley Tour
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 1, 2025. 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
Chicago 4th of July Weekend Fireworks
Celebrate the Fourth of July with a close-up view of fireworks bursting over Chicago's iconic skyline. The city's most beloved Independence Day tradition is watching the fireworks at Navy Pier on July 5, 2025. This annual waterfront fireworks show will dazzle crowds for 15 minutes on … [Read more...] about Chicago 4th of July Weekend Fireworks
Taste of River North
Sample a delicious selection of River North's popular restaurants, dance to live music and absorb the joys of summer at the annual Taste of River North on July 18-19, 2025. This three-day food fest supplies chances to try neighborhood eateries like Lure Fish Bar, Tree House Chicago and … [Read more...] about Taste of River North
