Free & cheap, Holidays
Free Halloween events in Chicago
Halloween in Chicago is so much more than just trick-or-treating. There are magical nighttime parades, authentic Day of the Dead celebrations, spine-tingling ghost tours, and…
National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen
Chicago Like a Local blog
Unique perspectives on the city from the people who live here.
Family, Holidays
Kid-friendly Halloween events in Chicago
Tricks, treats, and costume fun — the Halloween season brings tons of family-friendly events and activities to Chicago. You can pick your own pumpkins, go…
Blog, Special events
35+ things to do in Chicago this September 2025
While summer may be winding down, there’s no shortage of street festivals, art walks, museum exhibits, and more throughout September in Chicago. The month kicks…
Holidays
Labor Day weekend in Chicago
Round out summer in Chicago with a long weekend of outdoor fun and unique local events. Catch the last wave of summer warmth by cruising…
Festivals & special events, Food & drink
Chicago’s James Beard Award winners
Chicago is proud to be home to over 50 James Beard Award winners. Since the first ceremony in 1991, this national award has become the…
Music, Nightlife
30+ must-see Chicago live music venues
Mainstream pop, indie rock, hip hop, punk, blues, or jazz — no matter your musical taste, you’ll find it live in Chicago any night of…
Festivals & special events, Free & cheap, Music
Chicago SummerDance
June 29 – Sept. 7 2025 Free admission • Grant Park and parks citywide Enjoy live music and dancing on an open-air dance floor during…
Holidays
Fourth of July in Chicago
The Fourth of July is one of the best times to experience summer in Chicago, and it’s the perfect excuse to spend a long weekend…
Festivals & special events, Food & drink
Chicago Gourmet
Sept. 25 – 28, 2025 Harris Theater Rooftop • Millennium Park Welcome to Chicago Gourmet, one of the country’s most distinguished food festivals. Each year,…
Architecture & history, Festivals & special events
Open House Chicago
Oct. 18 – 19, 2025 Free admission • Citywide One weekend. 20+ Chicago neighborhoods. 170+ places to explore. Open the door to architectural gems all…
Architecture & history, Festivals & special events
Chicago Architecture Biennial
Sept. 19, 2025 – Feb. 28, 2026 Free admission • Chicago Cultural Center & citywide Experience the future of architecture at the 10th annual Chicago…
Festivals & special events, LGBTQ+
Chicago Pride: Your guide to Chicago Pride Parade, Pride Fest, and more
Chicago really knows how to party for Pride. Each June, the city is brimming with LGBTQ+ celebrations and events, including over-the-top street fests, exhilarating concerts,…
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