
Festivals & special events, Free & cheap
Chicago Air and Water Show
Aug. 16 – 17, 2025 Free admission • Chicago lakefront The Chicago Air and Water Show has been an iconic Chicago event since 1959. The…
Aug. 16 – 17, 2025 Free admission • Chicago lakefront The Chicago Air and Water Show has been an iconic Chicago event since 1959. The…
The nation’s future comedy stars are honing their skills right now in Chicago comedy clubs. Our city (which happens to be the home of improv)…
Chicago has long been a safe haven for the LGBTQIA+ community. With strong legal protections, access to affirming care, and a vibrant network of trans-led…
Now in its 12th year as a leading international art fair, EXPO CHICAGO Contemporary Art Fair returns to iconic Navy Pier with an exciting roster…
Chicago is lucky enough to be home to not one, but two stunning waterfronts — the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Both of these iconic…
Aug. 22 – 23, 2025 Free admission • Millennium Park and beyond The Chicago House Music Festival is an annual celebration of Chicago house music…
NASCAR is back for another high-octane, adrenaline-filled weekend in downtown Chicago. This one-of-a-kind event lets spectators enjoy the thrill of NASCAR with the legendary Chicago…
June 5 – 8, 2025 Free admission • Millennium Park and beyond A legendary Chicago event since 1984, the Chicago Blues Festival is the world’s…
Hermosa is a small neighborhood on Chicago’s northwest side that’s home to a close-knit Hispanic population, local eateries, vintage warehouses, and lots of hidden gems.…
Get ready soccer fans — the Premier League is bringing all the can’t-miss match day excitement to Chicago for a one-day-only experience. The Premier League…
July 31 – Aug. 3, 2025 Grant Park Each year, thousands of fans travel from around the world to experience Lollapalooza in Chicago. Those lucky…
Chicago is known for its famous skyline and urban neighborhoods, but it’s also right next to one of the largest lakes in the country. That…