Saturday

07-26-2025 Vol 2033

Summer Weekend Events in Chicago: A Guide to Local Festivities

As summer reaches its peak, Chicago is blooming with a multitude of events this weekend, creating the perfect opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors and dive into local culture.

From exciting sports matchups to vibrant neighborhood festivals, there’s something for everyone in the Windy City.

At Rate Field, two Chicago rivals will face off in an eagerly anticipated series: the Sox Vs. Cubs. Held from Friday to Sunday, fans can watch the games live at the home of the Sox in Bridgeport, with ticket prices starting at $53 on Ticketmaster.

For those seeking a cinematic experience, the Definition Theatre’s Amplify Series presents film screenings this weekend at the Logan Center for the Arts.

Running from Thursday through Sunday, audiences can enjoy works by local playwrights with tickets starting at just $12.51.

One of the major highlights of the weekend is the Wicker Park Fest, taking place Friday evening and continuing through Saturday and Sunday.

This neighborhood event will feature over 50 live music acts across multiple stages, alongside food, art, culture performances, and even a pet fest. Visitors are encouraged with a suggested donation of $10 for entry.

Another highlight is the Andersonville Summer Sidewalk Sale, where over 40 local businesses will offer summer sales, antiques, and fashion items along North Clark Street.

Live performances and pop-up shops will add to the shopping experience.

The Taste of Lincoln Avenue is also happening, offering a variety of local Midwest bands, food tastings, and crafts along Lincoln Avenue from Friday to Saturday.

Family-friendly activities, including a kids’ carnival and dog parade, make this event a hit, with a suggested $10 donation for entry.

Those looking to refresh their kitchens can participate in the Chicago Fair Trade Kitchen Swap, where gently used kitchenware can be traded for new items.

The event kicks off with a preview party on Friday evening, followed by general admission on Saturday, with tickets starting as low as $7.18.

Meanwhile, the Chinatown Summer Fair will draw crowds to Wentworth Avenue this Saturday and Sunday, offering a vibrant experience filled with cultural performances, crafts, and delicious food, all free of charge.

Live musical enthusiasts can gather at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion for Broadway Night, showcasing classics from Rodgers and Hammerstein, with free seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Art lovers can visit the
Artist’s Garden Flower Show at the Garfield Park Conservatory, which runs until September 14, featuring striking exhibits dedicated to artist Alfredo Ramos Martinez.

Kicking off the weekend, ‘Of Women By Women: South Asian Feminist Art and Artists’ is showcased at the South Asia Institute on Thursday, with free admission to explore this insightful exhibition.

Later in the evening, local musicians Tala Silva and Gayun Cannon will grace the stage at the Epiphany Center for the Arts, with advance tickets starting at $24.16.

Friday will also bring the vibrant performance of Mouna Tahar & The Starry Night Sky at Navy Pier, featuring various artists and special DJ sets. The evening is free to attend.

On Saturday, join the McKinley Park Cleanup event with Cleanup Club from 10 a.m. to noon, and enjoy lunch with community members. Attendees are encouraged to donate for cleanup efforts.

Art enthusiasts can partake in a multi-artist estate sale at Oliva Gallery, featuring a diverse range of art and materials available for purchase.

Cheese lovers can revel in the Cheese Curd Crawl, starting at Rebel & Rye and concluding at Will’s Northwoods Inn, with transportation included for those purchasing tickets.

Free admission at Bevapalooza will welcome guests to enjoy local food and art on Saturday afternoon.

The Logandale Lemonade Walk also invites residents to sip lemonade while supporting local businesses throughout Avondale and Logan Square.

The W.O.W. Lit Festival will celebrate literature and local authors this Saturday at Dr. Conrad Worrill Track and Field Center, inviting families for a day filled with literacy-themed activities.

Sports enthusiasts can participate in the 17th Annual Big Dig Tournament at North Avenue Beach, comprising fun beach games like volleyball and cornhole.

For adults, an Adult Field Day hosted by We Outside INC will feature nostalgic games and races, catering to those aged 21 and up.

Additionally, the From The ‘Go Fest will offer an exciting lineup of local music and performances at the DuSable Museum this Saturday.

The Black Girl Field Day will engage participants with various activities, blending wellness and sport in Fulton Market.

Finally, foodies can treat themselves at the Jollof Festival Chicago, delighting in the rich flavors of West African cuisine at The Promontory.

As the weekend winds down, Sunday will feature the 14th Annual Tour de Franzia at Kirkwood, inviting competitive spirits to earn prizes for participating in the race.

Celebrate Peru’s Independence Day in style at the Tanta Cocina Peruana with unlimited food and drinks available.

Concluding the weekend, the Chicago 2025 Better Love Yourself Trunk Pep Rally at Malcolm X College aims to assist college students, complete with workshops, music, and a buffet for attendees.

With so many options to choose from, this weekend in Chicago promises not only to entertain but also to foster community ties, showcase local talent, and celebrate a diverse array of cultures.

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the arts, taste local flavors, or take part in outdoor activities, there is no shortage of events highlighting the city’s vibrant summer spirit.

image source from:blockclubchicago

Abigail Harper