SCAN HERE FOR THE LATEST CHICAGO EVENTS CALENDAR. WINDY CITY SMOKEOUT July 10 – 13 United Center It’s all about beer, barbecue, and country music at this laid-back summer festival. AFRICAN/CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF LIFE July 11 – 13 Park 540 This four-day family fest offers lively music, food, arts, crafts, games, and more. CHOSEN FEW DJS PICNIC July 12 Jackson Park The world’s longest-running event dedicated to house music brings thousands of fans to Jackson Park. CHICAGO GOSPEL MUSIC FESTIVAL July 12 Millennium Park Hear everything from traditional choirs to contemporary gospel groups at this free outdoor festival under the stunning Pritzker Pavilion. LOLLAPALOOZA July 31 – Aug. 3 Grant Park This iconic music festival takes over downtown Grant Park with local talent and top acts from around the world. BUD BILLIKEN PARADE Aug. 9 Martin Luther King Drive The largest African American parade in the country, this exuberant procession of bands, floats, and student performers has taken place since 1929. NORTHALSTED MARKET DAYS Aug. 9 – 10 Northalsted This summer street festival, held in a historic LGBTQ+ neighborhood, offers a fun weekend of live music, dancing, DJs, and vendors. CHICAGO AIR AND WATER SHOW Aug. 16 – 17 Lakefront This free lakefront display is one of the largest events of its kind, with astonishing aerial and water demonstrations. CHICAGO HOUSE MUSIC FESTIVAL Aug. 22 – 23 Millennium Park Celebrate the birthplace of house music at this free festival, featuring local legends and international DJs spinning iconic beats in the heart of the city. Sundays on State TOP TO BOTTOM: ISMAEL QUINTANILLA III FOR LOLLAPALOOZA; COURTESY OF CHICAGO LOOP ALLIANCE 11
Chicago Visitors Guide 2025: Page 11
