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
outdoor
Randolph Street Market Festival
One of the most beloved events of the early summer season is Chicago's signature open-air market, the Randolph Street Market Festival. Filled with vintage treasures, live bands, food and fun, the market opens on July 25- 26, 2026, in the West Loop. Celebrating 23 years, the Randolph Street … [Read more...] about Randolph Street Market Festival
Free Outdoor Movie Series at Navy Pier
Catch movies in the shadow of Lake Michigan and Navy Pier all summer long. The Polk Bros Park at Navy Pier will host a series of free, family-friendly movies throughout the Summer. Movies at the Pier will kick off every Monday at 6:00 pm through August 31, 2026. The Lake Stage in Polk Bros. … [Read more...] about Free Outdoor Movie Series at Navy Pier
Taste of Chicago
The legendary summer food festival that spawned dozens of similar events across the city, the Taste of Chicago, returns to Grant Park for a showcase of Chicago's culinary diversity on July 8-12 2026. As the biggest free culinary festival in the country, the Taste of Chicago opens in … [Read more...] about Taste of Chicago
Wrigleyville Night Market
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
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
Things To Do In Chicago in May
With spring weather warming up more consistently and the lakefront thawing into lovely aquamarine waves, May is a favorite time to explore Chicago before the large summer tourist crowds arrive. Consider these free or low-cost activities for your Chicago May adventures. Besides the essential … [Read more...] about Things To Do In Chicago in May
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
Early Bird Chicago Boat Cruises for $20
It's that time of year! The season to enjoy Chicago views of gorgeous Lake Michigan has officially arrived and there's no better way to take in all the watery beauty than with a boat cruise. Chicago Party Boat is offering discounted Friday Night Skyline Cruises every Friday in May, May 1- 29, … [Read more...] about Early Bird Chicago Boat Cruises for $20
Celebrate Spring with a Bonfire at Andersonville’s Valborg
Join the Swedish tradition of welcoming spring and banishing winter with a roaring bonfire, music, poetry, food and dance at the second annual Valborg in the Andersonville neighborhood on April 30, 2026. Sit around the bonfire and toss the worries you've written down into the flames to kick … [Read more...] about Celebrate Spring with a Bonfire at Andersonville’s Valborg
Discount Tickets for Saturday Night at the Zoo
Experience the sights and sounds of the zoo after dark, visiting animals and sipping cocktails at this adults-only evening event, Saturday Night at Lincoln Park Zoo on May 2, 2026. Stroll through the grounds of Lincoln Park Zoo at night and enjoy special after-hours viewing of the … [Read more...] about Discount Tickets for Saturday Night at the Zoo
Art on the Mart
Stroll through the Riverwalk for views of one of the world's largest digital art platforms. ART on THE MART displays contemporary art projections across the 2.5-acre facade of THE MART. The spring show features the work of Spanish Artist Luis Urculo and students from the School of the Art Institute, … [Read more...] about Art on the Mart
