The Ultimate Chicago Summer Guide 2024: 120+ Fests, Fairs And More Fun – Block Club Chicago

Block Club Chicago
Your Neighborhood News Site
CHICAGO — Summertime Chi is upon us, and the city’s farmers markets, cultural parades, festivals and more are coming in hot.
Want to dance until you drop at one of Chicago’s many music fests? Shop local makers at street markets? Catch free movie screenings at the park?
From food fairs to art bazaars to baseball games, from Pride Month parties to Labor Day weekend festivities, we’ve compiled more than 120 events to enjoy from spring into early fall.
Have an event you want us to add to the list? Fill out this form to get it added.
Here’s a roundup of festivals, parades and other events in Chicago from May through September:
Farmers Markets
May-October
Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., and various locations
Shop produce and other goods from local vendors at farmers markets around the city.
Admission is free. Learn more here.
Bike Out Negativity
May 18
3147 W. Douglas Blvd.
The fourth annual bike ride is a 6-mile celebration of Chicago youth. There will also be a pre-ride party with local community organizations and giveaways for West Side youth.
Registration is free online. Learn more here.
Life Time Chicago Spring Half Marathon & 10K
May 19
Maggie Daley Park, 337 E. Randolph St.
Run miles along the lakefront and enjoy a post-race party at Maggie Daley Park with live music, flower picking and a Chicago-style brunch.
Registration is sold out, but you can still sign up for the waitlist or show up to cheer on runners. Learn more here.
Patio Palooza
May 21
Division Street and Damen Avenue
Crawl around patios along Division Street for the Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber of Commerce’s Patio Palooza. Participants will taste small bites and signature appetizers from participating restaurants.
Tickets are $35. Learn more here.
Paint The Town Red
May 23
Pritzker Pavillion, 201 E. Randolph St.
Local music nonprofit Uniting Voices Chicago is bringing together singers and choirs from around the city to perform a repertoire of choral classics, original songs, pop medleys and world music.
Admission is free. Learn more here.
Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival
May 24-26
3200 N. Sheffield Ave.
Tribute bands, DJs, food, libations and more will fill the streets during the 39th annual street in the heart of Lakeview.
There is a $10 suggested donation upon entry. Learn more here.
Mole De Mayo
May 24-26
On 18th Street between Morgan and Halsted streets
At this annual Pilsen street fest, local chefs will face off to make the best mole, a Mexican sauce known for its layered flavor profile of hot, sweet and sour ingredients. There will also be art, music and dance, lucha libre wrestling, local artisans and more.
There is a $5-$10 suggested donation upon entry. Learn more here.
Brazilian Festival Chicago
May 25
Pioneer Court, 401 N. Michigan Ave.
Celebrate Brazilian culture near the Chicago River with food, music, small businesses and more.
Admission is free. Learn more here.
Memorial Day Wreath-Laying Ceremony & Parade
May 25
Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., and along State Street
Every year for Memorial Day, Chicago honors U.S. military personnel who died while serving in the armed forces with a wreath-laying ceremony at 11 a.m. and a parade that kicks off at noon.
Learn more here.
Mayfestiversary
May 25-26
At the corner of Ravenswood and Belle Plaine avenues
Begyle Brewing and Dovetail Brewery are back with their annual spring party. There will be music, food trucks, pop-ups and more to celebrate warm weather and Dovetail’s ninth anniversary.
There is a $5 suggested donation upon entry. Learn more here.
Randolph Street Market
May 25-26
1341 W. Randolph St.
A biannual European-style fest, Randolph Street Market returns with over 100 vendors selling antiques, vintage art, handmade decor and more. There will also be live music and multiple bars.
Tickets are $5-$15. Learn more here.
Sueños Festival
May 25-26
Grant Park, 331 E. Randolph St.
Rauw Alejandro, Peso Pluma and Maluma are headliners of this year’s Latino music fest, Sueños.
Tickets are sold out, but hopefuls can sign up for a waitlist online. Learn more here.
Norwood Park Memorial Day Parade
May 27
Onahan Elementary School, 6634 W. Raven St.
This 101st annual Memorial Day parade includes a flag-raising ceremony, a performance of the National Anthem and a musical prelude by a local band and choir.
Learn more here.
Maifest Chicago
May 30-June 2
4521 N. Lincoln Ave.
Celebrate German culture with food, dance, live music and more at this annual fest.
Learn more here.
Chicago House Music Conference
May 31
Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St.
Connect with and learn from Chicago house music icons and experts. Panels will focus on how to cultivate safer and more inclusive nightlife spaces, making money in the streaming age, Latine influence on the genre, songwriting techniques and more.
Admission is free. Learn more here.
Do Division Street Fest
May 31-June 2
Division Street between Damen and Leavitt streets
Do Division Street Fest returns to West Town with more than 30 bands across two stages, shopping, food and entertainment. This year’s lineup includes Horsegirl, Avey Tare, Sybris, Divino Niño and more.
Learn more here.
Summer Fireworks
9 p.m. Wednesdays and 10 p.m. Saturdays May 29-Aug. 31
Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave.
Navy Pier’s annual summer firework shows are back on from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, lighting up the sky with color near the Chicago River and Lake Michigan.
Learn more here.
Lincoln Park Greek Fest
May 31-June 2
St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 2701 N. Sheffield Ave.
This Hellenic fest brings Greek food, music, folk dancing and more to Lincoln Park.
There is a $10 suggested donation upon entry. Learn more here.
Chicago Gospel Music Festival
June 1
Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E. Randolph St.
Kicking off Millennium Park’s 20th anniversary season, this music fest brings together a star-studded lineup of acclaimed gospel artists. Headliners include a variety of Grammy Award-winning artists, with The Clark Sisters, Chicago’s own Todd Dulaney, Chandler Moore and Anita Wilson.
Admission is free. Learn more here.
Stewardshipalooza
June 1
Ping Tom Memorial Park, 1700 S. Wentworth Ave.
Ping Tom Memorial Park is celebrating its 25th anniversary this summer.
Learn more as the celebration approaches here.
Shedd Pride Night
June 1
Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive
Start off Pride Month with a 21-and-older night at the aquarium, DJs and an ocean-themed drag showcase.
Tickets are $14.95-$39.95. Learn more here.
57th Street Art Fair
June 1-2
Between Kenwood and Woodlawn avenues
This 77th annual fair brings more than 180 artists to browse and shop, food trucks, live music and children’s activities to Hyde Park.
Admission is free. Learn more here.
Windy City Hot Dog Fest
June 1-2
4000 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Some of Chicagoland’s favorite hot dog stands will compete to make the best wiener at this fest. There will also be a kids’ area, arts and crafts vendors and a community stage.
Learn more here.
Queer Fam Pride Jam
June 2
Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St.
This LGBTQ+ family-friendly fest is back and better for its second edition. Taking place alongside the Chicago House Music Festival, there will be drag performances, DJ sets, dancing, crafts, face painting, a vendor market and more.
Admission is free. Learn more here.
Chicago House Music Festival
June 2
Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St.
Queer Fam Pride Jam will transition into the Chicago House Music Festival, which features artists Lori Branch, Ash Lauryn, Karizma, ANANÉ and more.
Admission is free. Learn more here.
Run For The Zoo
June 2
Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St.
Raise funds for the Lincoln Park Zoo while running laps through its gardens and animal habitats at this family-friendly run. There are a variety of races for all levels, including kids’ courses and a 10K.
Registration is $24.99-$110.98. Learn more here.
House On The Plaza
June 3
Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St.
Dance around Daley Plaza with house tunes provided by DJ Queen B and more.
Admission is free. Learn more here.
Sox vs. Cubs
June 4
Wrigley Field, 1060 W. Addison St.
Watch two Chicago rivals face off in Wrigleyville.
Tickets start at $32 on SeatGeek.
Harper Court Summer Music Series
June 6
5235 S. Harper Court
Dance with neighbors at this Hyde Park groove session with DJ “ET” Taylor. Neighbors are also invited to bring folding chairs and explore local shops and restaurants.
Learn more here.
Chicago Blues Festival
June 6-9
Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., and Ramova Theatre, 3520 S. Halsted St.
The largest free blues festival in the world is back this summer. The four-day fest opens at Bridgeport’s Ramova Theatre and continues with three stages, 35 performances and more than 250 artists in the heart of the city.
Learn more here.
Puerto Rican Fest
June 6-9
2800 W. Division St.
Enjoy four days of music, dance, carnival rides, games, food and drinks, arts and more at the 46th annual Puerto Rican Fest.
Learn more here.
Andersonville Midsommarfest
June 7-9
On Clark Street from Foster Avenue to Gregory Street
Andersonville’s hallmark summer fest features more than 50 music and entertainment acts across three nights, two days and five stages.
Learn more here.
Puerto Rican People’s Day Parade
June 8
Division from Western to Sacramento avenues
The parade is part of Humboldt Park’s Puerto Rican Fest.
Learn more here.
Sox Crawl: Stadium Pre-Game
June 8
Guaranteed Rate Field, 333 W. 35th St.
Crawl through the White Sox stadium for a pregame ahead of their big game against the Red Sox.
Tickets start at $30. Learn more here.
Old Town Art Fair
June 8-9
Old Town Triangle Center, 1763 N. North Park Ave.
The Old Town Art Fair is back with over 200 artists, a garden walk, live music, a food court and a children’s corner.
Learn more here.
Wells Street Art Fair
June 8-9
On Wells Street between North Avenue and Division Street
This art fair is back for its 49th year with over 175 artists, food from local restaurants, music performances and art activities for kids.
Learn more here.
Mandala Makers Music Festival
June 9
Republic Bank, 2720 W. Devon Ave.
This festival highlighting South Asian-American artists is back for its sixth edition.
Admission is free. Learn more here.
Ribfest Chicago
June 14-16
Lincoln Avenue between Irving Park Road and Berteau Avenue
Fifty thousand pounds of pork in three days? Ribfest returns to North Center with more than 20 food vendors serving up barbecue and dozens of whiskey tastings.
Learn more here.
Bronzeville Juneteenth Celebration
June 15
3521 S. King Drive
With more than 400 expected attendees, this fest bills itself as Bronzeville’s largest Juneteenth celebration. There will be local businesses, vendors, food and a variety of live performances, including music, dance and spoken word.
Learn more here.
Still We Rise: Juneteenth Celebration
June 15
Dan Ryan Woods, South Western Avenue and West 87th Street
Celebrate Juneteenth and African American culture with food, music, dance and the arts at this third annual event.
Learn more here.
Taste Of Chicago Rogers Park
June 15
1222 W. Touhy Ave.
Taste of Chicago offers pop-ups in various neighborhoods to showcase local eateries and culinary diversity.
Learn more here.
Chicago Italian Beef Festival
June 15-16
3100 S. Morgan St.
This inaugural fest brings Italian beef vendors, beer, live music and more to Bridgeport.
There is a $5 suggested donation upon entry. Learn more here.
Gold Coast Art Fair
June 15-16
South Lake Shore Drive and East Monroe Street
This 66-year Chicago tradition showcases thousands of art pieces from 250 artists. There will also be treats, live music and beer to enjoy while browsing, painting classes, a kids’ art zone, a gently used art collection drive and more.
Tickets are $10-$15. Kids 12 and younger get in free. Learn more here.
5K San Juan Run
June 16
Paseo Boricua, 2459 W. Division St.
Run or walk a 5K through Humboldt Park to benefit Tu Casa Project, a local organization that provides youth programs, entrepreneur opportunities, financial education and more to neighbors.
Registration is $20-$45. Learn more here.
Joffrey For All
June 16
Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St.
This free public performance returns for the second time with fan-favorite dances by Joffrey artists and students.
Learn more here.
Rock The Block BBQ: Juneteenth Celebration
June 16
Armstrong (Lillian Hardin) Park, 4433 S. Saint Lawrence Ave.
There will be food, music, vendors, a bounce house and more at this family-friendly fest.
Tickets are free. Learn more here.
Juneteenth BBQ & Block Party
June 19
DuSable Black History Museum, 740 E. 56th Place
This 12th annual Juneteenth celebration offers free admission to the museum, children’s activities, vendors, food trucks, libations and more.
Learn more here.
Motoblot: Motorcycle Street Rally
June 21-23
Cobra Lounge, 235 N. Ashland Ave.
This 11th annual motorcycle and hot rod show features 20 live bands, a beer hall, food trucks, a pin-up contest, a mini grand prix and more.
Tickets start at $18 per day or $45 for three days. Learn more here.
Pride Fest
June 22-23
On Halsted Street from Addison to Grace streets
The annual celebration of LGBTQ+ life, culture and community returns with more than 40 performers, 150 merchandise and food vendors, speakers, dance exhibitions, a safe space for youth and more.
There is a suggested $15 donation upon entry. Learn more here.
The Magnificent Mile Art Festival
June 22-23
875 N. Michigan Ave.
This art fest showcases the work of 60 juried artists from around the country, including jewelry, fashion, glass and functional art.
Admission is free. Learn more here.
Malt Row On Damen Beer Stroll
June 26
Along Damen Avenue between Wilson Avenue and Argyle Street
Stroll between Ravenswood shops and galleries while tasting craft beer, spirits and wines from local breweries and distilleries.
Tickets are $32. Learn more here.
Hyde Park Jazz Festival Benefit & Concert
June 27
The Promontory, 5311 S. Lake Park Ave.
Immerse yourself in South Side jazz and music culture at this annual benefit.
Tickets start at $250 per seat. Learn more here.
Back Lot Bash Chicago Pride
June 28-30
Cheetah Gym parking lot, 5238 N. Clark St.
Celebrate the final weekend of Pride Month with performances by G Flip, Leisha Hailey and Kate Moenning, Siena Liggings, DJ Ca$hEra and more.
Tickets are $26.52. Learn more here.
Logan Square Arts Festival
June 28-30
At the intersection of Logan Boulevard, Kedzie Avenue and Milwaukee Avenue
This three-day neighborhood celebration features bands, local artists, vendors and more to benefit local nonprofits.
Learn more here.
Millennium Art Festival
June 28-30
Michigan Avenue and East Lake Street
This fest features thousands of works by more than 100 artists, libations, food trucks, face painting and live music.
Admission is free. Learn more here.
Chicago Pride Parade
June 30
Montrose Avenue and Broadway Street, south to Halsted Street
The Chicago Pride Parade is back for its 53rd edition with 125 floats, performance groups, marching bands and more. The event draws tens of thousands of people to Uptown, Lakeview and Lincoln Park.
Learn more here.
4th On 53rd Parade
July 4
Starting at Hyde Park Bank, 1525 E. 53rd St.
A decades-old Hyde Park tradition, the parade leads into a free festival with performances, games, bounce houses, face painting, a petting zoo and more.
Learn more here.
African/Caribbean International Festival of Life
July 4-7
Washington Park, 5500 S. Cottage Grove Ave.
Music, food, arts, crafts, games and more will fill the park for the 31st annual fest.
Learn more here.
Chicago Craft Beer Fest
July 5-7
Jonquil Park, 1001 W. Wrightwood Ave.
Taste beers from Illinois breweries for the fest’s 11th edition at Jonquil Park this summer.
Registration starts at $25. Learn more here.
Harper Court Summer Music Series
July 11
Harper Court, 5235 S. Harper Court
Dance with neighbors at this Hyde Park groove session with a DJ and beloved local band Funkadesi. Neighbors are also invited to bring folding chairs and explore local shops and restaurants.
Learn more here.
Windy City Smokeout
July 11-14
United Center parking lot, 1901 W. Madison St.
Thomas Rhett, Parker McCollum, Cody Johnson and Carrie Underwood are headliners of this year’s beer and barbecue fest, Windy City Smokeout.
Learn more here.
Jeff Fest
July 12-14
Jefferson (Thomas) Memorial Park, 4822 N. Long Ave.
Live music, food, family fun and more are coming to Jefferson Park for its 23rd annual arts and music festival.
Learn more here.
Square Roots
July 12-14
On Lincoln Avenue between Montrose and Wilson avenues
Square Roots brings together live music, family fun, local restaurants, vendors and craft beer from Lincoln Square and beyond.
Learn more here.
West Fest
July 12-14
Chicago Avenue between Wood Street and Damen Avenue
Popular street festival West Fest will bring live music programmed by Empty Bottle Presents, local shops and eateries, makers and activities for kids and pets.
Learn more here.
Millennium Park Residency: Experimental Sound Studio
July 13
Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E. Randolph St.
As part of Millennium Park’s summer residency program, an audio exhibit will explore how nature sounds are part of the “soundtrack of the city.”
Learn more here.
The Chosen Few Picnic & Music Festival
July 13
Jackson Park, 6401 S. Stony Island Ave.
Alongside the Chosen Few DJs, this long-running house music event features guest DJs like Jihad Muhammad, Sundance and Neil Pierce and guest performers Julie McKnight, Fast Eddie and Jasper Street Company.
General admission starts at $80. Learn more here.
Southport Art Fest
July 13-14
West Waveland and North Southport avenues
Steps away from Wrigley Field, the family-friendly Southport Art Fest brings two days of art, live performances, games and more to the neighborhood.
Learn more here.
Millennium Park Summer Film Series
Tuesdays July 16-Aug. 20
Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E. Randolph St.
Catch “Jurassic Park,” “Coco,” “Barbie,” “American Fiction” and more free film screenings at Millennium Park. Guests can take a seat at the pavilion or lounging on the lawn. Movies start at 6:30 p.m., and double features start at 6 p.m.
Learn more here.
Millennium Park 20th Anniversary Celebration
July 18-21
Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E. Randolph St.
Celebrate Millenium Park’s 20th birthday with ¡Súbelo! headlined by Fruko y Sus Tesos, the Grant Park Orchestra in performance with South Side native Common and more.
Learn more here.
Pitchfork Music Festival
July 19-21
Union Park, 1501 W. Randolph St.
Black Pumas, Jai Paul, Jamie XX, Carly Rae Jepsen, Alanis Morissette and MUNA are just a few of Pitchfork’s headliners, plus a lineup of dozens of other artists.
Tickets start at $119. Learn more here.
Roscoe Village Burger Fest
July 19-21
2000 W. Belmont Ave.
Burgers, music, arts and crafts and kids’ activities are highlights of this 17th annual patty party.
There is a $10 suggested donation upon entry. Learn more here.
Tacos Y Tamales Festival
July 19-21
16th and Peoria streets
Pilsen’s Tacos Y Tamales features a variety of food vendors, a beer portfolio, music, an art alley and shopping for its eighth edition.
Learn more here.
Taste Of River North
July 19-21
627 N. Wells St.
Taste of River North brings three days of food, art, shopping and family fun.
Learn more here.
Chicago Food Truck Festival
July 20-21
2300 S. Indiana Ave.
Taste cuisine from some of Chicago’s top food trucks and tent vendors at this foodie festival.
Admission is free with drink tickets available for purchase online. Learn more here.
Ravenswood On Tap
July 20-21
Ravenswood Corridor, Ravenswood and Berteau avenues
Celebrate local breweries with cocktails, tappings, live music, street food, artisans, axe-throwing and more at Ravenswood On Tap.
There is a $10 suggested donation upon entry. Learn more here.
Taste Of Lincoln Avenue
July 26-28
2500 N. Lincoln Ave.
Catch Midwest bands, taste food from local vendors, sip on spirits and make arts and crafts at the 40th annual Taste of Lincoln Avenue.
Learn more here.
Taste Of Chicago Marquette Park
July 27
Marquette Park, 6743 S. Kedzie Ave.
Taste of Chicago offers pop-ups in various neighborhoods to showcase local eateries and culinary diversity.
Learn more here.
Bantu Fest
July 27-28
Midway Plaisance, 1130 Midway Plaisance
Celebrate more than 30 countries at the eighth annual Bantu Fest, from South Africa and Nigeria to Haiti and Jamaica to Brazil and Senegal. The two-day event features multicultural cuisine, live bands, artists, music and dance, children’s activities, DJs, fashion and more.
Tickets are $10-$35. Learn more here.
Chinatown Summer Fest
July 27-28
On Wentworth Avenue from Cermak Avenue to 24th Place
Chinatown Summer Fest draws more than 40,000 people each year for a lion dance procession, Asian cultural performances, Chinatown restaurant samplings, arts and crafts and more.
Learn more here.
Wicker Park Fest
July 28-30
North Milwaukee Avenue
This neighborhood celebration features eclectic music, local food, arts and crafts and retail vendors.
Learn more here.
Harper Court Summer Music Series
Aug. 1
5235 S. Harper Court
Dance with neighbors at this Hyde Park groove session with Sam Thousand and The Soul Vortex, The Windy City Ramblers and a DJ. Neighbors are also invited to bring folding chairs and explore local shops and restaurants.
Learn more here.
Lollapalooza
Aug. 1-4
Grant Park, 331 E. Randolph St.
Tyler, The Creator, Sza, The Killers and Blink-182 are just a few of the headliners at this year’s highly anticipated Lollapalooza, alongside dozens of other artists across four days.
Tickets start at $149. Learn more here.
Dancing In The Streets
Aug. 2-4
Hubbard Street between Paulina and Wood streets
Dancing In The Streets is a celebration of West Town’s craft beer scene featuring live music, dancing, local food vendors and makers.
Learn more here.
Sabor Fest
Aug. 2-4
1800 S. Blue Island Ave.
Sabor Fest brings tacos, tequila, music and more to Pilsen.
Learn more here.
Cubs vs. Sox
Aug. 9
Guaranteed Rate Field, 333 W. 35th St.
Chicago baseball rivals will face off in the ballpark.
Tickets start at $39 online.
Bud Billiken Parade
Aug. 10
4500-5500 blocks of Martin Luther King Drive
This year’s Bud Billiken Parade marks 95 years of celebrating Black Chicago with a 2-mile procession and barbecues, picnics and back-to-school giveaways.
Learn more here.
Cubs vs. Sox
Aug. 10
Guaranteed Rate Field, 333 W. 35th St.
Chicago baseball rivals will face off in the ballpark.
Tickets start at $45 online.
India Independence Day Parade
Aug. 10
Devon Avenue from Western to California avenues
Chicago’s parade marking India’s independence showcases Indian culture with music, dance and colorful floats.
Learn more here.
Chicago Air & Water Show
Aug. 10-11
North Avenue Beach, 1601 N. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, and along the lakefront
The summer staple is preparing for lift-off once again this summer with two days of renowned aerial demonstrations.
Learn more here.
Northalsted Market Days
Aug. 10-11
Halsted Street from Belmont Avenue to Addison Street
There will be live music on five stages, hundreds of vendors, food and drink, dance exhibitions, drag performances and more in Northalsted.
Learn more here.
Ecuadorian Parade
Aug. 11
Montrose and California avenues to Kimball Avenue
Celebrate Ecuadorian culture with floats, folkloric dance, music and more.
Learn more here.
Pakistan Independence Day Parade
Aug. 11
Devon Avenue from Damen to Western avenues
Along the South Asian pocket that is Devon Avenue, the Pakistan Independence Day Parade features floats, music, dance and more to honor Pakistani culture.
Learn more here.
Millennium Park Residency: Experimental Sound Studio
Aug. 15
Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E. Randolph St.
As part of Millennium Park’s summer residency program, an audio exhibit will explore how nature sounds are part of the “soundtrack of the city.”
Learn more here.
Taste Of Chicago Pullman Park
Aug. 17
Pullman Park, 11101 S. Cottage Grove Ave.
Taste of Chicago offers pop-ups in various neighborhoods to showcase local eateries and culinary diversity.
Learn more here.
Sangria Fest
Aug. 17-18
3021 W. Division St.
This annual fest offers Latin American food and wine, live music, artisan vendors and more.
Learn more here.
Millennium Park Residency: Collaboraction and Teatro Vista
Aug. 23
Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E. Randolph St.
As part of Millennium Park’s summer residency program, Collaboraction and Teatro Vista present Sandra Delgado’s “La Havana Madrid,” a tribute to a ’60s Lakeview nightclub where Latine immigrants found refuge and community.
Learn more here.
Chalk Howard Street
Aug. 24
East of the Howard Red Line “L” stop, between Paulina Street and Ashland Avenue
Each year, neighbors and local artists use Howard Street as a canvas for chalk drawings. There’s also live music, food and drinks.
Learn more here.
Millennium Park Residency: Chicago Black Dance Legacy Project
Aug. 24
Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E. Randolph St.
As part of Millennium Park’s summer residency program, 10 dance companies will come together for the Chicago Black Dance Legacy Project.
RSVP and learn more here.
Chicago Triathlon
Aug. 24-25
5200 N. DuSable Lake Shore Drive
With a traditional triathlon, super sprint and kids triathlon, this competition is open to all ages and levels.
Register and learn more here.
Race Judicata
Aug. 29
1700 N. Stockton Drive
Race a 5K through Lincoln Park while raising funds for Chicago Volunteer Legal Services Foundation.
Learn more here.
ARC Music Festival
Aug. 30-Sept. 1
Union Park, 1501 W. Randolph St.
The three-day house and techno music fest brings dozens of artists to Chicago and draws thousands of fans.
Passes start at $199.99. Learn more here.
Taste Of Polonia Festival
Aug. 30-Sept. 2
Copernicus Center, 5216 W. Lawrence Ave.
This yearly four-day fest takes place Labor Day weekend with live music, food and family fun.
Learn more here.
Harper Court Summer Music Series
Sept. 5
5235 S. Harper Court
Join neighbors at “A Dope Southside Open Mic” by The Silver Room hosted by Phalair. Neighbors are also invited to bring folding chairs and explore local shops and restaurants.
Learn more here.
Taste Of Chicago Grant Park
Sept. 6-8
Grant Park, 331 E. Randolph St.
Taste of Chicago offers pop-ups in various neighborhoods to showcase local eateries and culinary diversity.
Learn more here.
German American Oktoberfest
Sept. 6-8
North Lincoln and West Leland avenues
Neighbors can immerse themselves in all things German with food, drinks, bands and more.
Learn more here.
Taste Of Greektown
Sept. 6-8
315 S. Halsted St.
Hellenic pride takes center stage at the 34th annual culinary fest Taste of Greektown. Alongside food, there will be live bands, games and more.
Learn more here.
Pilsen Mexican Independence Day Parade
Sept. 7
18th Street from Newberry to Wolcott avenues
The 22nd annual parade draws thousands to the neighborhood in celebration of Mexican culture and independence.
Learn more here.
Von Steuben German Day Parade
Sept. 7
Lincoln Avenue and Irving Park Road
This North Center parade features German bands and cultural festivities.
Learn more here.
Lakeview Taco Fest
Sept. 7-8
3500 N. Southport Ave.
More than 10 local eateries will serve up tacos at the 11th annual Lakeview fest. There will also be beer, two music stages, Mexican wrestlers and kids’ activities.
There is a $10 suggested donation upon entry. Learn more here.
Printers Row Lit Fest
Sept. 7-8
South Dearborn Street, from Ida B. Wells Drive to Polk Street
The largest free outdoor literary event in the Midwest returns in September for its 39th edition.
Learn more here.
El Grito Chicago
Sept. 14-15
280 S. Columbus Drive
To celebrate Mexican Independence Day, this fest brings food, dance, merchandise, games, crafts and more to Downtown Chicago.
Learn more here.
Lakeview East Festival Of The Arts
Sept. 14-15
Belmont and Broadway Avenue
Lakeview East Festival of the Arts features more than 120 artists, food, live music, children’s activities and more.
Learn more here.
Ravenswood ArtWalk
Sept. 14-15
Ravenswood Industrial Corridor, Lawrence Avenue to Irving Park Road
Ravenswood ArtWalk features open studios and galleries, an outdoor makers market, live music, a pop-up beer garden, kids’ activities, food trucks and more.
RSVP and learn more here.
26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade
Sept. 15
26th Street from Albany to Kostner avenues
This year’s parade theme is “Celebrando Nuestras Tradiciones” and showcases Mexican culture through brightly colored floats, mariachi bands and folkloric dancing.
Learn more here.
Annual Mexican Patriotic Parade
Sept. 15
87th Street and Commercial Avenue
The Mexican Patriotic Club is hosting its annual parade on the Southeast Side.
Learn more here.
Millennium Park Residency: Vocalo Presents
Sept. 20
Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E. Randolph St.
As part of Millennium Park’s summer residency program, Chicago’s only urban alternative station, Vocalo, will present a special concert with local talent, including Pivot Gang, Marquis Hill and KAINA.
Learn more here.
Riot Fest
Sept. 20-22
Douglass Park, 1401 S. Sacramento Drive
The annual three-day Riot Fest is bringing punk rock, alternative, hip-hop and reggae to North Lawndale at the end of the summer.
Learn more here.
World Dumpling Fest
Sept. 21
3150 W. Logan Blvd.
Enjoy diverse cultural “dumplings,” like Latin American empanadas and Chinese wontons, as well as music and dance in Logan Square.
Learn more here.
Millennium Park Residency: Old Town School Of Folk Music
Sept. 22
Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E. Randolph St.
As part of Millennium Park’s summer residency program, the Old Town School of Folk Music is hosting a Global Carnival to celebrate Carnival traditions from the Caribbean Basin and Latin American to Brazil, New Orleans and Trinidad.
Learn more here.
Oktoberfest Chicago
Sept. 27-29
1429 W. Wellington Ave.
All things Bavarian are coming to Lakeview for Oktoberfest, an annual celebration of German culture and cuisine.
There is a $10 suggested donation upon entry. Learn more here.
Hyde Park Jazz Festival
Sept. 28-29
Midway Plaisance, 1130 Midway Plaisance
Free jazz improvisers, large ensembles and more performers take the stage for an ultimate celebration of jazz.
Learn more here.
Chicago Taco & Tequila Fest
September (TBD)
2600 N. Cannon Drive
Chicagoans can try taco and tequila pairings at this new festival.
Learn more here.
Guatemalan Independence Day Parade
September (TBD)
Montrose from California to Kimball avenues
The parade is the last one of September.
Learn more here.

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