SUMMER NAVY PIER FIREWORKS May – August Navy Pier MILLENNIUM PARK SUMMER MUSIC SERIES June – August It’s not summer in Chicago without this dazzling fireworks display lighting up the lakefront. MAXWELL STREET MARKET May – October Millennium Park This free outdoor concert series features top local and touring acts, all with a skyline backdrop in Millennium Park. MILLENNIUM PARK SUMMER FILM SERIES July – August Maxwell Street A local tradition since 1912, this sprawling alfresco market features a mix of crafts, live music, artists, food vendors, and more. CHICAGO BLUES FESTIVAL June Millennium Park Millennium Park Catch free movies under the stars at Millennium Park’s beloved film series, featuring everything from classics to family favorites all season long. WINDY CITY SMOKEOUT July 9 – 12 A genre with deep Chicago roots, blues is the star of this outdoor summer festival that attracts some of music’s biggest names. RIBFEST CHICAGO June United Center North Center It’s all about beer, barbecue, and country music at this laid-back summer festival. CHOSEN FEW DJS PICNIC July 11 Millennium Park Summer Music Series Held in the North Center neighborhood, this food festival draws more than 60,000 attendees with the sweet smell of barbecue. MIDSOMMARFEST June 12 – 14 Jackson Park Andersonville The world’s longest-running event dedicated to house music brings thousands of fans to Jackson Park. CHICAGO GOSPEL MUSIC FESTIVAL July Chicago Pride Parade The Andersonville neighborhood celebrates its Swedish roots and LGBTQ+ pride with live music, drag shows, artisans, and food and drink. CHICAGO PRIDE FEST & PARADE June 20 – 21 (Fest) June 28 (Parade) Millennium Park Hear everything from traditional choirs to contemporary gospel groups at this free outdoor festival under the stunning Pritzker Pavilion. WICKER PARK FEST July Northalsted This joyful celebration of LGBTQ+ community and culture takes place in the nation’s oldest official gay neighborhood. Wicker Park The music lineup is a major draw at this eclectic street fest that celebrates the neighborhood’s unique character. 10 CHOOSECHICAGO.COM
Chicago Visitors Guide 2026: Page 10
