Chicagoans rejoice as summer officially kicks off this weekend, bringing with it a vibrant lineup of activities under the sun. With temperatures soaring into the 90s, the city offers a plethora of events and festivities to enjoy from June 20-22.
Kicking off on June 20, concert enthusiasts can look forward to a variety of performances across different venues. Notable acts include CamelPhat at Navy Pier, Jack’s Mannequin at The Salt Shed Outdoors, and Simple Minds at Northerly Island. Other performances to check out include Sailorr at The Promontory and Steve Earle at the Vic Theater.
The fun continues on June 21 with Steve Aoki lighting up Navy Pier, while Chase Rice takes the stage at The Salt Shed Indoors. Closing out the weekend on June 22, attendees can catch Diana Krall at Ravinia or Radhika Das at Thalia Hall. Music lovers will also find Tokimonsta performing on multiple dates at Outset.
For sports fans, June 21 features a high-energy match as the Chicago Sky faces off against the Phoenix Mercury. Additionally, baseball enthusiasts can enjoy games featuring the Chicago Cubs versus the Seattle Mariners, and the Chicago Dogs taking on the Gary Southshore Railcats. Fans of minor league baseball can also catch the Windy City Thunderbolts as they go up against the Schaumburg Boomers.
The theater scene is equally vibrant this weekend. Comedian Jimmy Carr will perform on June 20 at The Chicago Theatre, while the mystical production ‘Old Gods of Appalachia’ will be shown at Park West. The House of Burlesque at House of Blues Chicago promises an exciting experience on June 21, and attendees might also enjoy the ongoing runs of ‘Kimberly Akimbo’ at CIBC Theatre and ‘Titanique’ at Broadway Playhouse.
Several exciting festivals will take place over the weekend, starting with the Summer Nature Fest at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. This special evening event features live animals, nature walks, and hands-on activities while offering food and drink options.
For music and fun lovers, the Meltin’ Margs Music Festival will be held at Soldier Field on June 20-21, showcasing headliners Eli Young Band and Ship Wrek, alongside a mix of music genres and margaritas. Festival-goers can also enjoy the Gold Coast Greek Festival from June 20-22, offering authentic Greek cuisine, live music, and dancing.
Another highlight this weekend is the Chicago Pride Fest returning to the Northalsted neighborhood on June 21-22. The 24th annual celebration will feature over 150 vendors, competitive drag performances, and even a pet parade, running from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on both days with a $20 suggested donation.
Art lovers can explore the Mag Mile Art Festival, displaying the works of 60 artists in various mediums outdoors at 875 N. Michigan Ave from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Also, Vegandale arrives at Grant Park on June 21-22, offering vegan vendors, art installations, and live performances celebrating cruelty-free culture.
Among individual events, Black Yacht Weekend reclaims Lake Michigan for a unique celebration of Black boaters, combining scenic cruising with on-water parties. The Chinatown Dragon Boat Race returns on Saturday, June 21, promising a day of family-friendly activities along the riverfront. Lastly, don’t miss Dog Admission Day at Morton Arboretum on Sunday, June 22, where dogs and their owners can explore the grounds together.
As summer heats up in Chicago, residents and visitors alike can look forward to an action-packed weekend filled with music, sports, theater, and community festivities that celebrate the season.
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