Blog, Special events
Things to do in Chicago this weekend
Want to know what’s happening this weekend in Chicago? Look no further. There’s a whole calendar of exciting events, exhibits, and activities taking place all…
Chicago Like a Local blog
Unique perspectives on the city from the people who live here.
Latest blog posts
Arts, culture & entertainment, Special events
Top things to do for Valentine’s Day in Chicago
Valentine’s Day is a time to treat your sweetheart ― or yourself! ― to something special. Whether you’re looking for a laid back activity (like…
Blog, Special events
30+ things to do in Chicago this January
A new year means new things to do in Chicago. January brings a packed calendar of things to do, so you can get your fix…
Dining, Special events
New Year’s Eve dinner in Chicago: dine-in, takeout, and delivery options
Say goodbye to 2021 and ring in the new year in true Chicago style — with an unforgettable meal. Enjoy champagne toasts and special menus…
Special events
Shop Chicago’s gift-filled holiday markets
Looking for the perfect gift? Chicago is home to a whole host of holiday markets, from artisan pop-ups with cool, handmade items to traditional Christmas…
Dining, Special events
Where to eat Thanksgiving dinner in Chicago: dine-in and carry-out
Chicago is a dining destination 365 days a year, which means there are tons of amazing restaurants open on Thanksgiving. Pick a dine-in option to…
Blog, Special events
Thanksgiving weekend in Chicago: Top things to do
There’s more to Thanksgiving weekend than eating turkey. Besides a delicious Thanksgiving dinner, there are tons of things to do in Chicago during the holiday…
Festivals, Festivals & special events, Special events
Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade
Thursday, Nov. 25, 2021 It’s turkey time! The Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade kicks off the holiday season with a fun-filled morning in the heart of…
Dining, Festivals, Special events
What to eat, drink, and buy at Christkindlmarket Chicago 2021
Christkindlmarket has been a holiday tradition in Chicago since 1996. Modeled after the 16th century holiday markets in Germany, the annual Christmas bazaar in Daley…
Blog, Neighborhoods, Special events
Day of the Dead in Chicago: a celebration of (after) life
Día de los Muertos, also known as Day of the Dead, is a tradition that has been practiced for more than 3,000 years in Mexican…
Nightlife, Special events
Chicago Halloween parties 2021: spooky parades, pop-up bars, costume parties, and more
Whether you’re in search of a fright or want to bring your best costume ideas to life, Chicago has a ton of one-of-a-kind events to…
Architecture & history, Special events
Open House Chicago 2021: 11 architecture sites not to miss
Have you ever walked by a building and thought “I wonder what that looks like inside?” Maybe it’s the old-school brewery in your neighborhood or…
Blog, Special events
Chicago voted Best Big City in the U.S. for the fifth year in a row
During the past year and a half, we’ve truly missed welcoming millions of visitors to our amazing city. But Chicago has always been a place…
Blog, Family, Festivals & special events, Holidays, Special events
Your guide to The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival 2021
The holiday season in Chicago is always an exciting time. With countless events across multiple neighborhoods, there are so many ways to celebrate. One event…
Blog, Special events
Your guide to fall activities in Chicago
Chicago has something to offer every season of the year, but fall is particularly magical. The leaves turn golden in Millennium Park, a crisp breeze…
Architecture & history, Special events
Chicago Architecture Biennial 2021: 6 things to see and do
Architecture can be so much more than the decoration to our cities. It can be a symbol of history, growth, and hope, or even inequality.…
Blog, Free & cheap, Special events
Outdoor and drive-in movies in Chicago
Remember drive-in movies? The old-school open-air theatres are having a renaissance. And they’re popping up all over Chicago, along with plenty of outdoor movie screenings…
Dining, Festivals, Special events
What’s new at Chicago Gourmet 2021
For the last dozen years, Chicago Gourmet has brought luxurious dinners and wine pairings, intimate conversations with local chefs, and the camaraderie of standing shoulder-to-shoulder…
Architecture & history, Blog, Special events
Be a part of history at the grand opening of the Pullman National Monument
Step into Chicago’s storied history of the country’s first planned industrial community. The city’s first and only national park site will be honoring the Grand…
Blog, Special events
What’s open in Chicago: latest updates
Chicago is open, and we’re excited to welcome visitors and residents to experience all the city has to offer. In accordance with the latest guidelines,…
Festivals, Music, Music, Nightlife, Special events, Sponsored
Experience Chicago In Tune
Make plans to experience Chicago In Tune, a new citywide festival held Aug. 19 – Sept. 19 that celebrates music in the key of Chicago…
Blog, Special events
Taste of Chicago To Go 2021: neighborhood pop-up events and more
Taste of Chicago is one of the city’s signature summer events. While the massive food fest in Grant Park is on hold this year, you…
Architecture & history, Blog, Special events
Celebrate Juneteenth in Chicago
Chicago wouldn’t be the world-class city it is today without a long line of influential African Americans, from Jean Baptiste Point du Sable and Ida…
Special events
How to celebrate Pride Month 2021 in Chicago
June in Chicago is spectacular for many reasons. And one of the major highlights is Pride. While the annual Pride Fest and Parade have been…
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