CHICAGO — Summer in Chicago is a vibrant tapestry of events and activities, celebrating art, culture, music, and community.
This summer, the city comes alive with more than 90 events ready to delight both locals and visitors, from Pride festivities and fireworks shows to food crawls and art fairs.
**All Summer Long**
Farmers markets pop up throughout the city, offering fresh produce and local products, and they run on various days through October across multiple locations, including Daley Plaza.
One of the summer’s most beloved traditions is the **Summer Fireworks** at Navy Pier, taking place at 9 p.m. on Wednesdays and 10 p.m. on Saturdays through August 30.
It offers a colorful display that lights up the night sky, visible along the Chicago River and nearby beaches.
Active enthusiasts can join the **Millennium Park Summer Workout Series**, featuring free yoga and fitness sessions on Saturdays until August 31 at Grant Park.
Food lovers can savor the best of Chicago’s food truck scene at the **Chi Food Truck Fest** every Friday through October 4, located at Daley Plaza.
For music fans, the **Millennium Park Summer Music Series** offers free concerts at the Pritzker Pavilion on Mondays and Thursdays from June 26 to August 7.
The park will also host free movie screenings every Tuesday evening from July 1 until August 19 as part of its **Summer Film Series**, with a lineup featuring popular films.
**June Highlights**
June kicks off with events like **Maifest Chicago**, celebrating German culture with food, music, and activities from May 29 to June 1.
**Do Division Street Fest** returns with over 30 bands and family attractions, while the **Windy City Hot Dog Fest** will showcase local hot dog stands offering their best creations.
On June 5, head over to Harper Court for the **Summer Music Series**, featuring local talent.
The **Chicago Blues Festival**, running from June 5-8 at Millennium Park, will be the largest free blues festival worldwide.
Moreover, **Ribfest Chicago** offers barbecue flavors from over 20 vendors.
For art lovers, the **57th Street Art Fair** on June 7-8 will showcase local artists and family-friendly activities.
June 12-15 brings the **Puerto Rican Festival**, coinciding with the **Puerto Rican People’s Day Parade** on June 14, ensuring an immersive cultural experience.
Meanwhile, the **Old Town Art Fair** on June 14-15 celebrates its 75th anniversary, featuring over 200 artists and live music.
The **Juneteenth BBQ & Block Party** on June 19 offers free museum access, children’s activities, and local vendors.
Celebrate Chicago’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community during the **Pride Fest** on June 21-22, and do not miss the grand **Chicago Pride Parade** scheduled for June 29.
**July Festivities**
July kicks off with the **4th On 53rd Parade & Festival** on July 4, a timeless tradition in Hyde Park.
For beer and barbecue enthusiasts, the **Windy City Smokeout** from July 10-13 features several performances and culinary delights.
At the **African/Caribbean International Festival of Life**, visitors can immerse themselves in music, art, and food from July 11-13.
Another highlight includes **Lollapalooza** running from July 31 to August 3, featuring major acts across multiple stages at Grant Park.
**August Events**
August continues the celebration with the **Chicago Air & Water Show** on August 16-17, showcasing breathtaking aerial demonstrations.
Throughout the month, festivals such as **Northalsted Market Days** and **Chicago House Music Festival & Conference** provide opportunities to experience diverse music and culture.
The **Taste of Chicago** events take place in different neighborhoods, showcasing local food and culinary diversity.
You can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at events like **Oktoberfest Chicago** at the end of August, celebrating German culture with food, drinks, and entertainment.
**September Highlights**
As summer comes to a close, September features events such as the **Chicago Triathlon**, the **Printers Row Lit Fest**, and the **Hyde Park Jazz Festival**, offering a range of activities for all interests.
The summation of all these events indicates a lively city that fosters community spirit, artistic expression, and cultural celebration throughout the summer months.
Chicagoans and visitors alike will have no shortage of exciting experiences available until the fall, making this summer one for the memory books.
image source from：https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/05/30/the-ultimate-chicago-summer-guide-2025-90-festivals-parades-markets-and-more/
