For Chicago, 2025 was a milestone year — the city hosted major events and gatherings, welcomed millions of visitors from around the globe, and was voted Best Big City in the U.S. for a historic ninth consecutive year.

And it looks like 2026 is shaping up to be another big year for Chicago. In the coming months, our city will welcome groundbreaking art exhibits, historic events, exciting theatrical premieres, top touring acts, and so much more.

Here are some exciting highlights coming to Chicago in 2026:

  • The highly anticipated Obama Presidential Center will open in the historic Hyde Park neighborhood, offering community events, exhibits, workshops, and more.
  • Taking over a historic mansion in downtown Chicago, The Hand & The Eye is expected to be the world’s largest magic venue when it opens in spring 2026.
  • As the starting point of the legendary Route 66, Chicago will be celebrating the route’s 100th anniversary with special events and pop-ups throughout the year.

Check out just a few of the exciting events coming to Chicago in 2026:

Festivals and events in Chicago

Chicago Architecture Biennial
Chicago Architecture Biennial

Chicago is known around the world for its one-of-a-kind events, from iconic music festivals like Lollapalooza to famous traditions like the annual St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. The new year brings an exciting lineup of festivals and events across the city throughout 2026.

  • Chicago Restaurant Week (Jan. 23 – Feb. 8, 2026)
    Dining deals abound during this highly anticipated foodie extravaganza.
  • Chicago Theatre Week (Feb. 5 – 15, 2026)
    Score discounted tickets to shows across Chicago from major stages to neighborhood theatres.
  • Chicago Architecture Biennial (through Feb. 28, 2026)
    The world’s largest free architecture exhibition wraps up in early 2026.
  • International Jazz Day (April 2026)
    Chicago has been named the host city of the 15th annual International Jazz Day celebration, recognizing the city’s rich musical legacy.
  • James Beard Awards (June 15, 2026)
    The culinary world’s most prestigious honors will be handed out to chefs and restaurants during a Chicago ceremony.
  • John Mulaney Live at Wrigley Field (July 11, 2026)
    The first-ever live comedy show at Wrigley Field, headlined by Chicago’s own hometown legend.

Explore more: Check out our festival and events guide for more bucket-list Chicago events.

Exciting Chicago openings

The Hand & The Eye Restaurant in Chicago
The Hand & The Eye rendering; courtesy of Rockwell Group

There’s always something new opening in Chicago and the list for 2026 is particularly exciting. Check out what’s coming to Chicago this spring and start planning your visit now.

  • The Hand & The Eye (opening spring 2026): This landmark venue will offer a new type of magic show. The immersive experience will allow guests to wander the historic mansion, experiencing performances and artifacts across multiple floors, rooms, and bars.
  • Obama Presidential Center (opening spring 2026): The former president lived on the city’s South Side for two decades, making it the natural choice for his official Presidential Center. Nestled in historic Jackson Park, the center will host a dynamic array of community events, exhibits, performances, workshops, talks, and more for the public.

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Milestone celebrations in 2026

Route 66 mural along the route in Chicago
Route 66 mural along the route in Chicago

Chicago is planning for a historic year in 2026. The city will be celebrating major milestones, including America’s 250th birthday and the 100th anniversary of Route 66. It’ll be an exciting time for history buffs, fans of Americana, road trippers, and more.

  • Illinois 250 (year round)
    This year-long celebration throughout Chicago and Illinois is part of the nationwide America 250 anniversary, marking the occasion with events throughout the year.
  • Route 66 Centennial (year round)
    Chicago will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66 throughout 2026, honoring the city’s place as the official starting point of the iconic road trip route.

Explore more: Check out our Chicago events calendar for even more exciting happenings this year.

Sporting events in Chicago

Wintrust Arena
Wintrust Arena

Chicago is one of the world’s great sports cities, this year and every year. In 2026, sports fans can expect tons of exciting basketball action from the WNBA and NCAA, a visit from the viral Savannah Bananas, and the first WWE at the United Center since 1994.

Museum exhibits in Chicago

Wonder of Water at the Shedd Aquarium
Wonder of Water at the Shedd Aquarium; photo by ©Shedd Aquarium/Brenna Hernandez

Each year, Chicago’s diverse array of museums hosts a packed lineup of exhibits that showcase everything from art to science to history and beyond.

This year, admire priceless paintings and cutting-edge works, immerse yourself in the magic of costumes, and marvel at one of the largest freshwater aquariums in the world.

  • Crafting Character: The Costumes of Paul Tazewell (opens Jan. 19, 2026)
    This new exhibit at the Museum of Science & Industry will feature the dazzling work of the Oscar-winning costume designer, from Wicked to Hamilton.
  • Yoko Ono: Music of the Mind (through Feb. 22, 2026)
    Don’t miss the final days of this groundbreaking retrospective during its limited-time run at the Museum of Contemporary Art.
  • Matisse’s Jazz: Rhythms in Color (March 7 – June 1, 2026)
    The acclaimed Art Institute of Chicago will host this exhibit showcasing Matisse’s iconic cut-paper works.
  • Pokémon Fossil Museum (opens May 22, 2026)
    This family-friendly interactive exhibition will be making its North American debut at the Field Museum.
  • The Immersion Theater (opens spring 2026)
    This next-generation 4D theatre will offer guests a new multi-sensory experience at the Shedd Aquarium.

Explore more: Discover unique museums and exhibits in every corner of Chicago.

Theatre and dance in Chicago

Hamilton National Tour
Hamilton National Tour

There’s nowhere else on earth like Chicago’s dynamic theatre scene. Our city is known for its iconic improv clubs and cutting-edge storefront theatres, but you’ll also find the latest Broadway hits, dramatic operas, exciting dance productions, and everything in between. Grab your tickets for these exciting upcoming shows in 2026.

  • Theater of the Mind Chicago (March 11 – May 31, 2026)
    From the mind of David Byrne, this immersive theatrical experience blends neuroscience research with thought-provoking creativity.
  • Black Ensemble Theater 50th Season (March 7 – Oct. 25, 2026)
    This landmark season will include odes to Jackie Wilson and Muddy Waters, plus other can’t-miss productions.
  • Broadway in Chicago (Jan. 13 – Aug. 16, 2026)
    Get your tickets now for an exciting slate of shows in 2026, including Hamilton, The Great Gatsby, Les Miserables, Chicago, and more.
  • Steppenwolf Theatre Company 50th Season (through July 12, 2026)
    This dynamic ensemble theatre is offering a slate of provocative shows to mark its 50th anniversary season.
  • Goodman Theatre 100th Season (through August 2026)
    Mark your calendar for the centennial season of this landmark stage, located in the heart of Chicago’s downtown theatre district.

Explore more: Score discounted tickets to more than 100 live shows during Chicago Theatre Week.

Concerts in Chicago

Confetti rains down at a concert inside The Salt Shed, a music venue in Chicago
The Salt Shed

Chicago is a music lover’s paradise. We’re the birthplace of genres like house and Chicago-style jazz and we’ve made our mark on everything from gospel to blues. The city is also home to an almost endless number of venues, from historic theatres to beloved neighborhood stages. In 2026, check out national tours, homegrown talent, and beyond.

  • Miguel at Aragon Ballroom (Feb. 28, 2026)
    This acclaimed R&B singer will perform at the historic Aragon Ballroom this winter as part of his CAOS tour.
  • Florence + The Machine at Allstate Arena (April 10 – 11, 2026)
    The powerhouse vocalist takes the stage in Chicago for two nights during her Everybody Scream tour.
  • Twin Peaks at Thalia Hall (May 14 – 21, 2026)
    In honor of their 10th anniversary, this local band returns to their hometown for a run of eight shows at historic Thalia Hall.
  • Ed Sheeran at Soldier Field (June 27, 2026)
    The Loop Tour will take over one of Chicago’s most iconic concert venues for one night only.
  • Ariana Grande at United Center (Aug. 3 – 6, 2026)
    Coming to Chicago for three nights this summer, The Eternal Sunshine Tour marks Ariana Grande’s first return to the stage in six years.

 Explore more: Check off your musical bucket list with these must-visit music venues in Chicago.

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