meetinchicago.com SUMMER CHICAGO BLUES FESTIVAL JUNE, JULY, AUGUST June Millennium Park A genre with deep Chicago roots, blues is the star of this outdoor summer festival that attracts some of the music industry’s biggest names. CHICAGO DISABILITY PRIDE PARADE JAMES BEARD AWARDS June Lyric Opera The nation’s most prestigious culinary honors are presented at this star-studded event. July 26 Downtown This annual parade is celebrating 22 years of promoting human diversity, drawing over 5,000 individuals, organizations, and leaders. CHINATOWN SUMMER FAIR CHICAGO PRIDE FEST & PARADE June 21 – 22 & June 29 Northalsted This joyful celebration of LGBTQ+ community and culture takes place in the nation’s oldest official gay neighborhood. July 26 – 27 Chinatown Celebrate summer in the historic Chinatown neighborhood with cultural demonstrations, traditional dances, and food from local restaurants. LOLLAPALOOZA NASCAR CHICAGO STREET RACE WEEKEND July 5 – 6 Grant Park and select neighborhoods This exhilarating event brings high-speed NASCAR races to the streets of downtown Chicago, along with top musical acts. July – August Grant Park and select neighborhoods This iconic music festival takes over the lakefront’s Grant Park and features a multi-genre lineup of local talent and top acts from around the globe. CHOSEN FEW PICNIC & FESTIVAL Chosen Few Picnic & Festival BUD BILLIKEN PARADE July Jackson Park This celebration of house music, held in scenic Jackson Park, has been drawing legendary DJs and fans for more than 30 years. WINDY CITY SMOKEOUT July 10 – 13 United Center It’s all about beer, barbecue, and country music at this outdoor summer festival. August Martin Luther King Drive The largest African American parade in the country, this exuberant procession of bands, floats, and student performers has been taking place since 1929. BLACK WOMEN’S EXPO CHICAGO GOSPEL MUSIC FESTIVAL July Millennium Park Hear everything from traditional choirs to contemporary gospel groups at this free outdoor festival under the stunning Pritzker Pavilion. August McCormick Place The nation’s largest, longest-running exposition dedicated to Black women consumers and empowering local businesses features lifestyle, beauty, entertainment, and culture.
Chicago Meeting Professionals Guide 2025: Page 21
