The Ultimate Chicago Summer Guide 2024: 120+ Fests, Fairs And More Fun (2024)

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Ravenswood On Tap

July 20-21

Ravenswood Corridor, Ravenswood and Berteau avenues

Celebrate local breweries with co*cktails, 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 30countries 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

The Ultimate Chicago Summer Guide 2024: 120+ Fests, Fairs And More Fun (24)

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.

The Ultimate Chicago Summer Guide 2024: 120+ Fests, Fairs And More Fun (25)

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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The Ultimate Chicago Summer Guide 2024: 120+ Fests, Fairs And More Fun (2024)
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