21+ ONLY Brianna Wellen, Chicago Reader: Sideshow entertainer Thom Britton’s solo show is part performance, part demonstration. Britton is a charismatic performer who appears genuinely…
Two years ago, Alé left the city to move back into their childhood home to caretake for their mother. Far from friends, their plans in…
The Ally Written by Itamar Moses Directed by Jeremy Wechsler When Asaf’s student asks him to sign a manifesto condemning police brutality, he wants to…
THE PARTY’S ROARING IN CHICAGO! THE GREAT GATSBY is a “Broadway extravaganza that explodes with life and energy” (Entertainment Weekly). Based on the classic American novel…
“CRITICS’ PICK. TRULY AMAZING!” – New York Times “BEST VISITING IMPROV COMEDY!”– TimeOut NY “HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!” – The Onion “★★★★★” THEY ARE AN ENTERTAINMENT PHENOMENON AND I…
After getting a single suggestion, the cast of six professional comedians asks the audience to choose a detective. Enjoy as they invent a tale of…
The Improvised Shakespeare Company® proudly presents its critically-acclaimed, long-running hit show Improvised Shakespeare Chicago, now in its 19th year! Join us for an evening of…
An icon of American dance, Alvin Ailey pioneered a company that has become an enduring symbol of artistic excellence and a powerful voice for African…
Welcome to the home of the eccentric Latimer, who waylays couples who are running away together and gives them a taste of what their lives…
Written and directed by Rueben D. Echoles Produced by eta Creative Arts Foundation, in association with EcholesINK A Lot to Unpack is a one-act comedy about Reality Television host…
Life happens outside of your comfort zone. Out Here is a world-premiere musical, a thrilling collaboration between Court Theatre and the University of Chicago, and an intimate…
This is a story about money. Don’t let them fool you otherwise. When a father loses his child in a clash with the local police,…
Comedian Zarna Garg is scheduled to perform in Chicago, IL, on Saturday, April 25, 2026, as part of her “Million Dollar Excuses Tour”.
US premiere of an Irish drama that was revived in 2024 at Dublin’s Abbey Theatre. Set in Dublin, 1850: The delicate balance at the heart…
Written by Ryan Stevens and directed by Stefan Roseen Sensor-E is the hit new social media app, able to simulate real-life sensations so you can…
Oil Lamp Theater’s next performance in its 2026 season is Poor Behavior, written by Theresa Rebeck and directed by Lauren Katz, April 10 – May…
Lewis Capaldi returns to Chicago for a powerful night of music at the United Center on April 25, 2026. Known for his soul-stirring vocals and…
The Lincoln Lodge stand-up comedy and variety showcase plays every Friday and Saturday night in Chicago’s glamorous Logan Square! In addition to The Lodge’s rotating…
Chicago’s longest running and best interactive improv comedy experience. ComedySportz is comedy played as a sport, not comedy ABOUT sports (whew). Refs, fouls, points, games…
Trap Door Theatre Presents: The Cuttlefish, or the Hyrcanian Worldview Written by Stanisław I. Witkiewicz Translated by Daniel Gerould Directed by Nicole Wiesner Part philosophical…
Idle Muse Theatre Company launches its 20th anniversary season with The Three Musketeers, March 26 – April 25, written by Robert Kauzlaric, directed by Idle…
It’s not a party — it’s therapy at 120 decibels. House of Heavy is coming to Chicago on 25 April 2026, taking over Cobra Lounge…
Puscifer is scheduled to perform in Chicago on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at The Chicago Theatre. The show is part of the band’s “The Normal…
Black history tours of Chicago offer an engaging journey through the city’s rich African American culture. Embark on an in-depth exploration of influential neighborhoods like…
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…
Route 66 offers a true taste of America, and the culinary adventure kicks off here in Chicago, a city that offers some of the best…
Chicago is proud to be the official host city of International Jazz Day 2026, a global celebration that honors jazz and its unique power to…
As we hop into spring, let’s make time to enjoy a delicious meal with friends and family. Whether you’re celebrating Easter or just the return…
March is dedicated to honoring the remarkable contributions of women throughout history, and Chicago is the perfect place to celebrate. From engaging educational events to…
March is certainly a celebratory time in Chicago, as the temperatures start to warm up and every weekend is packed with events. Watch the river…
This month in Chicago, explore lush indoor gardens, admire iconic works in one of the world’s top art museums, and join in colorful cultural celebrations…
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:
