The colors, music, dance and traditions of Mexico will light up Navy Pier during the exciting three-day events of Mexico Fest, scheduled for May 2-4, 2025. Dance along to noted dance troupes like Ballet Folklorico de Chicago and move to the rhythms of bands like Mariachi Estrellas de Chicago … [Read more...] about Mexico Fest at Navy Pier
family friendly
Pullman Railroad Days
Explore the historic world of railcars and their glamorous history during Chicago's biggest rail-themed event, Pullman Railroad Days, on May 17 and 18, 2025, in the Pullman neighborhood. Step inside elegant Pullman railroad cars from the early 20th century and learn about passenger trains, … [Read more...] about Pullman Railroad Days
Mole De Mayo Festival in Pilsen
Head to the historic Mexican neighborhood of Pilsen to explore the joys of the traditional chocolate-based dish of mole, at the 16th annual Mole De Mayo fest from May 24-26, 2025. Restaurants and chefs will offer their best recipes for the rich sauce served over enchiladas or meats … [Read more...] about Mole De Mayo Festival in Pilsen
Free and Cheap Easter Events
Easter in Chicago always brings excitement and hope, not just for the holiday but for the warmer weather of the spring season. Easter falls on Sunday, April 20, 2025, this year and events include a variety of Easter egg hunts, photo opps, parties and food specials. Most … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Easter Events
Timeout Market Chicago Easter Event
Hop over to Timeout Market Chicago for a family-friendly Easter at the Market event on April 20, 2025, in the West Loop neighborhood. Dress in your festive spring attire and join in the fun-filled activities. Hunt for eggs on the second floor of the market, sample tasty treats at … [Read more...] about Timeout Market Chicago Easter Event
Meet the Easter Bunny at Skydeck Chicago
There's nothing more iconic than viewing Chicago's legendary skyline from the 103rd floor of Willis (Sears) Tower. For a special springtime event, visitors can greet and take photos with the Easter Bunny at Skydeck Chicago from April 18-20, 2025. Soar to the 103rd floor of the city's … [Read more...] about Meet the Easter Bunny at Skydeck Chicago
Lithuanian Easter Egg Etching Workshop
Discover the beauty of traditional Lithuanian Easter egg etching at a workshop on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian Culture. The workshop runs from 1:00-2:30 pm and each participant should bring six hardboiled and dyed eggs to the session. Learn the … [Read more...] about Lithuanian Easter Egg Etching Workshop
Free Hyde Park Art Center Days
The creative fun of art making, exhibit tours, workshops and artist talks returns with the free quarterly event, Hyde Park Art Center Days, on April 19, 2025. This family-friendly program offers art-centered activities for the whole family. This season's installment features an … [Read more...] about Free Hyde Park Art Center Days
Greek Heritage Parade
Celebrate Greek culture and independence at the annual Greek Heritage Parade on April 6, 2025, in the Greektown neighborhood on the near west side. Every year the Greek community celebrates its liberation from 400 years of Ottoman and Turkish occupation which occurred on … [Read more...] about Greek Heritage Parade
Howard Street Carnaval
Celebrate the colorful and joyful carnival traditions of Africa and the Caribbean at the second annual Howard Street Carnaval on April 26, 2025, in the Rogers Park neighborhood. Join the free festivities which include a parade of costumed dancers, music and a festival in Willye B. … [Read more...] about Howard Street Carnaval
Free Spring Break Events at Navy Pier
Head to Navy Pier to enjoy a week of free interactive activities, rides, art sessions, music, treats and seasonal fun along the city's iconic waterfront during Spring Break at Navy Pier on March 24-28, 2025. Forget about kids getting bored or antsy during spring vacation because Navy … [Read more...] about Free Spring Break Events at Navy Pier
Free Things to Do In March In Chicago
March in Chicago is one of those months that teases us with a hint of warm Spring weather, only to switch back to snow and frigid temps a few days later. The good thing is that there are free things to do indoors that give a hint of sunnier seasons. The Garfield Park Conservatory … [Read more...] about Free Things to Do In March In Chicago




















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 