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 over the city this month in Chicago.
This summer weekend in Chicago is jam-packed with top music festivals, including:
- Chicago Gospel Music Festival (Saturday, July 12)
- 35th Annual Chosen Few Picnic & Festival (Saturday, July 12)
- Windy City Smokeout (Thursday, July 10 – Sunday, July 13)
Plus, don’t miss artisan markets, jaw-dropping art exhibits, riveting live theatre, family-friendly fun, exciting cultural events, and so much more.
Check out just a few of the top things to do this weekend in Chicago, July 11 – 13, 2025.
Windy City Smokeout
The ACM award-winning Windy City Smokeout BBQ & Country Music Festival will return to Chicago in 2025 for its 12th year. Hosted by Chicago’s BBQ…
Chicago Gospel Music Festival
A tradition for the past 40 years, the free Chicago Gospel Music Festival explores the depth of this Chicago-born genre.
This year’s dynamic lineup of musical acts includes a powerful group of top talent at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park.
35th Annual Chosen Few Picnic & Festival
This year’s festival promises to be an outstanding celebration of house music and soulful grooves, headlined by the Chosen Few DJs including founder Wayne Williams,…
Maxwell Street Market
Visitors to the Maxwell Street Market will experience an eclectic mix of foods and finds—including handmade crafts, resale housewares, clothing, and much more. This year’s…
Millennium Park Summer Workouts
The workout program takes place on the Great Lawn in Millennium Park on Saturdays, May 17 to August 30, 8-11:45 a.m. with a series of…
Fourth Annual Wild Mile Block Party
Ready for a party? Join us on the newly-expanded Wild Mile for a celebration of our urban waterways and thriving park spaces. Enjoy local beer,…
Englewood Village Market
Grow Greater Englewood's 6th Annual Englewood Village Market kicks off on Saturday, June 14th to connect residents with Black-owned businesses and activities rooted in Black…
Square Roots
Square Roots Returns July 11-13, 2025 Chicago's Ultimate Summer Street Festival Brings Music, Craft Beer & Family Fun to Lincoln Square Get ready for the…
CollectedCon 2025
Attention all toy enthusiasts and creative minds! Are you ready for an event that will inspire, educate and celebrate the world of designer toys? Then…
Bucktown Garden Walk
Bucktown’s largest annual community event, the Bucktown Garden Walk! This year we will have over 120 gardens open to the public, live music both days…
Chicago Summer Market
Markets for Makers is coming back to Artifact Events in Chicago on Saturday July 12 & Sunday July 13 from 11am - 5pm both days!…
Jazz Institute of Chicago and Chicago Park District Present the 2025 Chicago Latin Jazz Festival
The Jazz Institute of Chicago, in partnership with the Chicago Park District, proudly presents the 2025 Chicago Latin Jazz Festival, a free, family-friendly celebration of…
Chicago Greeter Neighborhood PopUp Series
Join the Chicago Greeter Neighborhood PopUp Series for FREE guided walks through the city's vibrant neighborhoods - led by friendly local volunteers! Come explore, connect, and experience Chicago…
Mela 2025
Save the date for Kalapriya’s annual Mela! Join us for a fantastic day of music, dance, food, crafts, and fun! Experience incredible local, national, and…
25th Annual Barrio Arts Festival
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and explore over 50 vendors showcasing unique art, clothing, home goods, jewelry, crafts, hats, artisan decorations and more! Indulge in delicious food from our fantastic food vendors too!
Bronzeville Summer Nights
Explore local businesses, connect with your neighbors, and experience the vibrant energy that makes Bronzeville shine. Groove, dine, and shop in the Bronzeville streets.
Vienna Beef x Half Acre present: Only Gold
Half Acre is partnering up again with Vienna Beef for their annual Only Gold party in the beer garden. Only Gold is a celebration of…
World Fair US
Experience the world. All in one place. World Fair US is an unforgettable international festival coming to Chicago from July 7–28, 2025, at SeatGeek Stadium.…
Chicago Greeter InstaGreeter Walks of the Riverwalk
Explore the Chicago Riverwalk with our knowledgeable volunteers! InstaGreeter walks take you on a free hour-long guided walk of the Riverwalk, without the need to…
Glenwood Sunday Market in Rogers Park
The nonprofit Rogers Park Business Alliance (RPBA) announces 23 local vendors for the 16th anniversary season of the Glenwood Sunday Market, which will operate every…
Shop Black Fest Chicago
Shop Black Fest Chicago | Midway Plaisance Park, Hyde Park | Friday, July 12, 2025 | 2 PM – 7 PM Chicago, it's time to…
Chicago Greeter InstaGreeter Walks of the Loop
InstaGreeter Downtown walks Looking for a quick and easy way to see downtown Chicago's top sights? Let InstaGreeter take you on a free hour-long guided…
Big Bus Tours’ Sunset Live Tour
Big Bus Tours, the global leader in open-top bus sightseeing, invites visitors to experience the enhanced Sunset Live Tour in Chicago. Available May 8 through…
Titanique
Broadway In Chicago presents the Porchlight Music Theatre production of TITANIQUE All aboard NYC’s must-sea musical comedy! When the music of Céline Dion makes sweet Canadian…
You Will Get Sick
A young man with a secret. An older woman who will listen. A predatory flock of birds. An upcoming audition for The Wizard of Oz. Welcome…
Frida Kahlo’s Month in Paris
Don’t miss the first-ever exhibition of Kahlo’s work at one of the most renowned art museums in the world.
Dressed in History: A Costume Collection Retrospective
What do a red sequin burlesque costume, a pair of original Air Jordan 1s, a baby’s wool bathing suit, and an enormous white tulle Christian…
Explore our events calendar for more Chicago events and happenings.
Please note that all events are subject to change.
