As summer rolls into Chicago, the city is buzzing with an array of vibrant events that cater to diverse interests and age groups.
One of the highlights is the historic Chicago Pride Parade, one of the oldest pride parades in the country, celebrated on June 29. The parade commences at 11 a.m. from Sheridan and Broadway, making its way to Diversey and Cannon. This year’s theme, “United in Pride,” echoes the collective spirit and solidarity of the LGBTQ+ community. For more details, visit pridechicago.org.
Food enthusiasts should not miss the Taste of Chicago in the Parks, happening in Marquette Park on June 28 from noon to 8 p.m. This festival features delicious offerings from local eateries alongside music and art. Additional events are scheduled for July 19 in Pullman Park and August 9 in Albany Park, with free admission. Vendors will accept both cash and credit payments. For more information, check out tasteofchicago.us.
In Evanston, the Main Street Fair, a new summer celebration, aims to revive the spirit of the beloved Custer Street Fair. Set for June 28 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the 700 block of Main Street, this festival promises a day filled with local art, music, food, and community vibes. Admission is free, and more details can be found at mainstreetfair.org.
Theater lovers can enjoy two captivating plays at TUTA Theatre this summer. From June 26 to August 17, witness “Tom & Eliza,” a play by Celine Song that explores a couple’s relationship in an unfiltered manner. Song, known for her film work in “Past Lives” and “Materialists,” brings this poignant narrative to life. Additionally, from July 6 to August 11, the intriguing theater experiment “White Rabbit, Red Rabbit” by Iranian playwright Nassim Soleimanpour will take place, featuring different actors in each performance. Tickets range from $20 to $60, with performances held at TUTA Theatre located at 4670 N. Manor. For more, visit tutatheatre.org.
Those who enjoy outdoor performances can catch Midsommer Flight’s rendition of Shakespeare’s “Love’s Labour’s Lost,” a romantic comedy focusing on the king and his companions who choose to renounce women. Beginning on June 27 at 6 p.m. at Chicago Women’s Park and Gardens, this performance is part of the company’s free shows in city parks. For further information on additional park performances, see midsommerflight.com.
Music fans have a treat in store as Chris Stapleton, renowned for his chart-topping album “Traveller,” brings his American Road Show tour to Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre on June 27-28, starting at 7:30 p.m. The husband-and-wife duo The War and Treaty will open these shows, with tickets starting at $89. For ticket details, visit ticketmaster.com.
The Millennium Park Summer Music Series is back, featuring an exciting lineup of free concerts. Kicking off on June 26, the series includes performances by Thee Sacred Souls, Chicago’s Renaldo Domino, the Heavy Sounds, and DJ Nosha Luv. Concerts will be held at 6:30 p.m. most Mondays and Thursdays until August 7 at Pritzker Pavilion. A complete schedule can be found at millenniumpark.org.
The Wildmans, a brother-sister duo from Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, will also perform on June 27 at 8:30 p.m. at the Hideout. Touring in advance of their upcoming album, “Longtime Friend,” this concert promises to showcase their unique Americana style. The Jenkins Twins will open the show, and tickets are priced at $18.65. More information is available at hideoutchicago.com.
For an immersive musical experience, Third Coast Percussion’s Rhythm Fest will celebrate the ensemble’s 20th anniversary on June 28 at Epiphany Center for the Arts. Running from noon to 10 p.m., the event features performances by several acclaimed artists, including Zakir Hussain and Clarice Assad, along with a special sound and film installation by Glenn Kotche of Wilco. Tickets are available for $60 at thirdcoastpercussion.com.
Art enthusiasts will delight in the “Gustave Caillebotte: Painting His World” exhibition at the Art Institute of Chicago, running from June 29 to October 5. This exhibit offers a deep dive into the life and works of the Impressionist artist, showcasing over 120 pieces, including paintings, drawings, and photographs. Admission ranges from $14 to $32, with more information available at artic.edu.
For film buffs, “Destination Ghibli: Celebrating 40 Years” at the Music Box Theatre displays cherished films by the legendary animation studio, featuring classics like “Castle in the Sky” and “Spirited Away” from June 27 to July 3. Tickets are priced at $12. For the full list of screenings, visit musicboxtheatre.com.
The Millennium Park Summer Film Series will host fan-favorite movies, kicking off with “The Sandlot” on July 1 followed by various other beloved films every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. through August. Titles include “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” and “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade,” among others. For more details, check millenniumpark.org.
Music lovers with a passion for documentaries can attend the showing of “Garland Jeffreys: The King of In Between” on June 28 at the Old Town School of Folk Music. This new documentary highlights the career of the influential singer-songwriter and will include a Q&A with the filmmakers. Admission is $32, and tickets can be found at oldtownschool.org.
For family-friendly fun, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is hosting an interactive exhibit titled “By a Thread: Nature’s Resilience” until June 30, 2026. This engaging exhibit invites visitors to learn about biodiversity through art projects and activities. Admission ranges from $10 to $17, with further details at naturemuseum.org.
Additionally, on June 29 and July 27, the Rock and Roll Playhouse will perform at Gallagher Way outside Wrigley Field, starting at 10 a.m. These concerts encourage children and parents alike to rock out to iconic hits in a fun and interactive environment. Admission is free, and more information can be found at gallagherway.com.
With so many exciting events planned across the city, there is something for everyone to enjoy this summer in Chicago.
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