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…
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…
Join A.B.L.E. – Artists Breaking Limits &Expectations as we celebrate our 10th anniversary of creating theatre and film for, with, and by individuals with intellectual…
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,…
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…
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…
Join the Chicago Jazz Orchestra as they celebrate the legacy of jazz icon Roy Eldridge, one of the first black musicians to become part of…
Is it a cannabis-themed game show or an uproarious, electively interactive live theatrical experience? Why can’t it be both? HighQ is an uplifting blend of…
The Glow Wild lantern festival transforms the night into a glowing celebration of art, culture, and conservation. Wander illuminated pathways surrounded by handcrafted lanterns inspired…
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…
The SatchVai Band, featuring iconic rock guitarists Joe Satriani and Steve Vai, is scheduled to perform in Chicago, IL, on Sunday, May 3, 2026, as…
Chicago’s top comedians battle it out for laughs, glory, and sweet sweet points in an interactive game show, featuring a live studio audience (that’s you!)…
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…
Legendary Mexican rock band Caifanes is scheduled to perform in Chicago on Sunday, May 3, 2026.
They Might Be Giants are scheduled to perform a three-night residency in Chicago from Friday, May 1, through Sunday, May 3, 2026. These are their…
It is Rocco and Allen’s job to watch the moon, and it is really quite boring. Night after night, they time the sequences exactly –…
Giordano Dance Chicago (GDC), America’s Original Jazz Dance company, returns to the Harris Theater for its 63rd season, radiating energy and boundless spirit with three…
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 AM WILD: A Charley Harper Exhibit explores the flora and fauna of six different habitats, including the Desert, Ocean, Rainforest, Sky, Woods and City.…
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…
Author, singer, humorist, voice actor, and radio personality Garrison Keillor is scheduled to perform in Chicago on Monday, May 4, 2026, for an evening of…
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:
