Blog, Special events
50+ things to do in Chicago this July 2025
There are so many great things to do this summer in Chicago. July brings a jam-packed schedule of block parties, festivals, concerts, sporting events, art…
National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen
Chicago Like a Local blog
Unique perspectives on the city from the people who live here.
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. 12, 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,…
Holidays
Memorial Day weekend in Chicago
Saturday, May 24 to Monday, May 26, 2025 Memorial Day weekend marks the official start of summer in Chicago — and the city knows how…
Blog, Special events
Your guide to the Chicago Auto Show 2025
For car lovers, winter in Chicago can only mean one thing — the Chicago Auto Show. Whether you’re a first-time or an Auto Show veteran,…
Holidays
St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago
There’s nothing quite like St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, when Irish taverns fill with revelers, cultural celebrations pop up in every corner of the city,…
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