Chicago Like a Local blog

Unique perspectives on the city from the people who live here.

DCASE Blues Music Festival Blues Fest 2018 in Millennium Park Budweiser Crossroads Stage Joe Louis Walker performance

Blog, Music, Special events

Celebrate the Year of Chicago Music with a new city-wide music festival

The Year of Chicago Music is here and it’s starting off on an exciting note. The recently announced Chicago In Tune music festival will take…

Published on February 13, 2020 by Kelsey O'Connor

Dining, Festivals, Free & cheap, Special events

What to eat, drink, and do at Christkindlmarket Chicago

Christkindlmarket has been a holiday tradition in Chicago since 1996. Modeled after the 16th-century holiday markets in Germany, the annual Christmas bazaar in Daley Plaza…

Published on November 1, 2019 by Alma Bahman

Blog, Family, Festivals & special events, Free & cheap, Holidays, Special events

Your guide to The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival 2019

The holiday season is always an exciting time in Chicago. With countless events across multiple neighborhoods, there are so many ways to celebrate. One event…

Published on October 31, 2019 by Zoe Krey

Turkey balloon float in front of Macy's at the Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade

Festivals, Festivals & special events, Special events

Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade 2019

Thursday, Nov. 28, 2019 It’s turkey time! The Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade kicks off the holiday season with a fun-filled morning in the heart of…

Published on August 8, 2019 by Kelsey O'Connor

Free & cheap

Where to watch the Chicago Air & Water Show

The Chicago Air & Water Show is one of the city’s most beloved summer traditions. What began in 1959 as part of a children’s day…

Published on July 1, 2019 by Allana Mortell

Festivals & special events, Food & drink

Chicago beer festivals and events

Attention all beer enthusiasts! Cheers to Chicago’s booming craft beer scene at the city’s packed calendar of beer fests. Sample craft beers from local, national,…

Food & drink, Free & cheap

What to eat at Taste of Chicago 2019

This year’s Taste of Chicago, the world’s largest free-admission food fest, will feature 82 local restaurants, including 24 pop-ups and 17 food trucks. That adds…

Published on June 11, 2019 by Kelsey O'Connor

Festivals

Chicago summer festivals: the ultimate guide

In Chicago, fest season is the best season. The city’s social calendar is packed with street fairs, music festivals, pop-up markets, outdoor concerts, food fests,…

Published on May 13, 2019 by Kelsey O'Connor