A library is the perfect place to explore the origins of a country founded on words. What did Congress mean when they declared that “all…
By A Thread: Nature’s Resilience dives into the science of biodiversity and what it takes to protect it—showcasing the research, conservation, and education work happening…
The Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) Hall was built as a memorial to the sacrifices of Union Civil War veterans and their families. According…
Illinois Holocaust Museum presents Experience360 provides a panoramic view through history and truth, inviting visitors of all backgrounds to witness stories of survival, ask questions, and reflect…
American Prophets journeys through the pages of American history to explore the influence of religion and spirituality on writers and culture, with interactive displays incorporating…
I Used to Live in Chicago is a multidisciplinary exhibition exploring memory, displacement, and cultural resilience across Chicago’s historically black neighborhoods. Curated by Anefertiti Bowman,…
Eight artists invite you to an exhibition of refined and personal work. Hosted in the historic gallery of the Palette & Chisel Academy of Fine…
The Evanston Art Center (EAC) is excited to welcome the public to our upcoming exhibition, Walldrawings | Friedhard Kiekeben and Maria Burundarena. The exhibition will…
The Evanston Art Center (EAC) is excited to welcome the public to our upcoming exhibition, Thinking Through Tapestry | American Tapestry Alliance. The exhibition will…
A library is the perfect place to explore the origins of a country founded on words. What did Congress mean when they declared that “all…
By A Thread: Nature’s Resilience dives into the science of biodiversity and what it takes to protect it—showcasing the research, conservation, and education work happening…
The Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) Hall was built as a memorial to the sacrifices of Union Civil War veterans and their families. According…
Illinois Holocaust Museum presents Experience360 provides a panoramic view through history and truth, inviting visitors of all backgrounds to witness stories of survival, ask questions, and reflect…
American Prophets journeys through the pages of American history to explore the influence of religion and spirituality on writers and culture, with interactive displays incorporating…
Ink & Outrage: 18th-Century Satirical Prints in London & Dublin explores the devastating wit and graphic brilliance displayed by English caricature artists such as James…
Free Admission Museum Nights take place every third Friday of each month from 5 pm to 8 pm! The tour will start at 6:00 pm…
I Used to Live in Chicago is a multidisciplinary exhibition exploring memory, displacement, and cultural resilience across Chicago’s historically black neighborhoods. Curated by Anefertiti Bowman,…
The “First Fridays Art Walk,” organized by the Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber of Commerce, welcomes art enthusiasts to explore the neighborhoods’ vibrant arts scene. All…
Eight artists invite you to an exhibition of refined and personal work. Hosted in the historic gallery of the Palette & Chisel Academy of Fine…
Zhou B Art Center opens exhibitions every 3rd Friday of the month with an evening reception from 7pm-10pm hosted by resident artists and galleries. This…
Explore our building. Chat with the artists. Let your curiosity set the pace. Sift through multiple galleries and studios; with 50 artists in residence, each…
The Evanston Art Center (EAC) is excited to welcome the public to our upcoming exhibition, Walldrawings | Friedhard Kiekeben and Maria Burundarena. The exhibition will…
The Evanston Art Center (EAC) is excited to welcome the public to our upcoming exhibition, Thinking Through Tapestry | American Tapestry Alliance. The exhibition will…
A library is the perfect place to explore the origins of a country founded on words. What did Congress mean when they declared that “all…
Obama Presidential Center opening: what to know Here’s what to know about the historic opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago: The Center will…
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In 1871, the Great Chicago Fire swept through the city and destroyed much of downtown. Yet Chicago rose from the ashes, building back bigger and…
Chicago’s event calendar reflects the city itself — bold, diverse, and always buzzing. From lakefront music festivals and neighborhood street fairs to major sporting events and food celebrations, there’s something happening in every season.
Here’s a look at the types of events you’ll find across the city:
Other Chicago events include cultural celebrations, sporting events, conventions, comedy shows, live theatre, and so much more.
Chicago’s biggest annual events draw visitors from around the world and highlight the very best of the city’s food, music, and culture.
These signature events help define Chicago as one of the top festival cities in the country.
If you’re planning a trip around Chicago’s event calendar, there’s something new to discover every month of the year.
Summer is peak festival season. The city comes alive with outdoor concerts, neighborhood street fests, and major events like Lollapalooza, Taste of Chicago, and the Chicago Air and Water Show. Nearly every weekend offers something new, especially along the lakefront and in Millennium Park.
Early fall brings cooler temperatures and marquee events like the Chicago Marathon and culinary celebrations such as Chicago Gourmet. It’s an ideal time for visitors seeking cultural events like the Chicago International Film Festival.
Winter brings a dose of holiday magic to Chicago, with beloved traditions like ZooLights and Christkindlmarket. Visitors can also check out cultural celebrations for the Lunar New Year and enjoy local-favorite annual events like Chicago Restaurant Week and Chicago Theatre Week.
Spring is the perfect time to visit Chicago for culture lovers. Check out spring flower shows, top art fairs like EXPO Chicago, and bucket-list traditions like Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. It’s also the start of outdoor events, with baseball season kicking off in late March.
Chicago is known for offering an impressive lineup of free events, particularly in the summer months.
Some of the city’s most popular free events include:
Come experience the unmatched energy of Chicago’s legendary sports scene, from our fan-favorite teams to our historic stadiums and iconic events.
Catch a game by one of Chicago’s major league teams:
Other major annual sporting events in Chicago include:
