Your curated list of events, eats, outdoor fun, culture, and insider tips around Swan City.
Spotlight major events, must-see performances, and special activities happening this weekend.
A spectacular free weekend of aerial and watercraft performances, featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, Golden Knights parachute team, and Navy Leap Frogs—with great viewing spots like 360 Chicago and food-drink specials at lakeside venues.
A weekend-long celebration of seafood at iconic Navy Pier—the ultimate lobster indulgence alongside the Air & Water Show action.
A high-profile UFC pay-per-view event headlined by the middleweight title bout vs. significant local excitement including rumored presence of CM Punk.
A whimsical baseball-meets-performance show with quirky rules and fun for all: no bunting, foul-ball-as-outs, fan fouls—and tickets start at around $35.
Seasonal festivals, recurring markets, concerts, art exhibitions, and other key events for the rest of the month.
A free, city-wide four-day celebration of the birthplace of House music — featuring live DJ sets, dance workshops, panel talks on music, culture, and marketing.
A multi-day city-wide jazz celebration with performances by greats like Esperanza Spalding (Aug 28) and Kermit Ruffins (Aug 30), among others.
A one-day summer market offering unique vintage treasures from across eras—perfect for collectors and style hunters.
Free live music outdoors at Navy Pier’s Beer Garden all August—part of an ongoing summer concert series.
New openings, trending food spots, special menus, breweries and cafés.
A special prix-fixe menu celebrating Sicilian cuisine all day long—perfect for a flavorful night out.
Hikes, parks, waterfront activities, and ways to enjoy the outdoors.
A vibrant weekly farmers’ market on Sundays offering fresh local produce and community vibes.
Enjoy strolling or biking along the scenic Lakefront Trail and relax at Lake Michigan beaches—especially nice during warm summer weekends.
Safety note: Florida heat can be intense. Pack water, sun protection, and check park advisories before you go.
Theater, live music, museums, film screenings, and cultural celebrations.
A powerful museum in a restored 1938 housing building, with period-recreated apartments and stories of public housing residents—free entry, with paid guided tours.
Ongoing free art installations at Navy Pier—‘Artists at the Pier’ and ‘Escaramuza, the Poetics of Home’ explore identity through photography and poetry.
A featured live concert by The Chainsmokers at Navy Pier—a highlight for music lovers this weekend.
Lesser-known spots, quirky activities, and local secrets worth exploring.
Discover historic Merz Apothecary in Lincoln Square for unique shopping and head to hidden speakeasy-style bars like The Alderman for one-of-a-kind cocktails.
Overview of Chicago from reliable sources.