Chicago on the Cheap

Deals, discounts and free events in Chicago

family friendly

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 17-18, 2026. This two-day food fest supplies chances to try neighborhood eateries like Lure Fish Bar, Seoul Taco and ,Fogo de Chao, … [Read more...] about Taste of River North

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 11-12,2026. Immerse yourself in the richness of Puerto Rican culture during this highly anticipated free festival on the grounds of the museum. Dance to 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 three main galleries: Faie Afrikan Art, Gallery … [Read more...] about Bronzeville Art District Trolley Tour

Chicago Gospel Music Festival

Enjoy the spirit-filled gospel music genre that was created in Chicago at the annual Gospel Music Festival on July 24-25, 2026, in Millennium Park. This beloved fest draws fans from all over the country to hear some of gospel's greatest voices at this free event. A cherished Chicago tradition … [Read more...] about Chicago Gospel Music Festival

Square Roots Festival

Music lovers rejoice, the return of Old Town School of Folk Music's Square Roots Festival is set for July 10-12, 2026.  This free, family-friendly music fest celebrates music from around the globe as well as the popular Lincoln Square community.  This year's artist line-up of two … [Read more...] about Square Roots Festival

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

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 4, 2026. This annual waterfront fireworks show will dazzle crowds for 15 minutes on … [Read more...] about Chicago 4th of July Weekend Fireworks

1865 Fest Juneteenth Celebration

The annual 1865 Fest brings cultural family activities, live music, educational workshops, food and fun to Garfield Park for two days, June 19-20, 2026. Honoring the Juneteenth holiday that brought freedom to enslaved Americans two years after official emancipation in 1865, the free events connect … [Read more...] about 1865 Fest Juneteenth Celebration

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

DuSable Museum Juneteenth Celebration

DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center celebrates Juneteenth, the oldest nationally recognized commemoration of the ending of slavery in the U.S., with an all-day  Juneteenth Celebration on Friday, June 19, 2026.   Yoga, horseback riding, a farmers' market and special … [Read more...] about DuSable Museum Juneteenth Celebration

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