Chicago’s a city of broad shoulders and broader smiles–especially during summer. Every season here offers something special, but summer has a certain magic, a palpable buzz that hangs in the air.
If it feels like the whole city’s decided to throw a party, that’s because it has.
Ask any local and they’ll tell you summer in Chicago is the best, and the many festivals are one of the biggest reasons. From street fests to epic extravaganzas, you’ll find an event to fit your mood.
Ready to dive in? These Chicago festivals promise to make your summer unforgettable.
For more, visit our Chicago festival schedule calendar.
Chicago Summer Festivals 2024
Tips for Attending Chicago Festivals in Summer
- Plan ahead: With so many fantastic events happening throughout the summer, it’s essential to plan which festivals you want to attend.
- Arrive early: Arriving early can help you secure a good spot, especially at popular events. It also gives you time to explore the festival grounds, locate amenities like restrooms, and scope out food vendors.
- Dress comfortably and for the weather: Chicago summers can be hot and sunny, but the weather can also be unpredictable. Wear comfortable clothing, and consider bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection. Don’t forget a light rain jacket or umbrella just in case of unexpected showers.
- Stay hydrated: Drink your water! Many festivals have water stations where you can refill your water bottles, so be sure to bring one with you.
- Bring cash: It’s always a good idea to have cash in case vendors don’t accept credit cards.
- Use public transportation: Chicago has an extensive public transportation system that can get you to most festival locations.
- Pay attention to your stuff: With large crowds, it’s essential to keep an eye on your belongings. Consider using a small backpack or crossbody bag to carry your essentials, and avoid bringing valuables you don’t need.
- Take advantage of festival amenities: Many festivals offer amenities like designated kids’ areas, shaded spots, and seating areas.
- Respect the neighborhood: Keep in mind that many of these events take place in residential areas. Be respectful of the local residents by keeping noise levels down and disposing of your trash properly.
- Have fun and be open to new experiences: Chicago summer festivals are a great way to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, cultures, and culinary delights. Embrace the spirit of these events by trying new foods, discovering new music, and engaging with the local community.
Most importantly, have fun and make the most of your summer festival adventures!
There may be affiliate links in this post, which means we may get a small commission. It’s at no extra cost to you and helps keep TLT free. Everybody wins!
Recurring Chicago Summer Festivals & Events
These Chicago festivals and events take place multiple times throughout the summer.
Millennium Park Summer Workouts
May 18 – August 31, 2024
Neighborhood: Loop
Fireworks at Navy Pier
May 25 – August 31, 2024
Neighborhood: Streeterville
Fireworks light up the sky over downtown Chicago every Wednesday and Saturday night from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
Find a spot anywhere on the pier to take in this dazzling free display. The soundtracks feature a mix of dramatic and popular music with some special occasion anthems.
While you’re there, be sure to hop aboard the Centennial Wheel, one of many things to do at Navy Pier.
Jazzin’ at the Shedd
June 5 – August 28, 2024, Wednesdays
Neighborhoods: Museum Campus
Jazzin’ at the Shedd is an annual event returning this summer with a festival-worthy lineup of Chicago’s top jazz ensembles.
Attendees can relax with a drink on the breezy terrace and take in the unbeatable city view or stroll Shedd Aquarium and meet the animals that live inside.
Click here to learn more and get tickets.
Tuesdays on the Terrace
June 25 – August 27, 2024, Tuesdays
Neighborhood: Streeterville
The Museum of Contemporary Art’s Anne and John Kern Terrace Garden takes center stage for a vibrant and free summer concert series.
It’s the 25th year for this annual summer event. To celebrate, the MCA is embracing multiple genres and styles with Chicago roots.
You can see the full schedule here.
Grant Park Music Festival
June 12 – August 17, 2024
Neighborhood: The Loop
This Chicago tradition of nearly 90 years offers 10 weeks of free classical music concerts, artistic development initiatives, radio broadcasts, and community engagement and outreach programs.
Enjoy the beautiful skyline as you listen to works by Mendelssohn, Brahms, Beethoven, Schumann, Tchaikovsky, and more.
Millennium Park Summer Music Series
July 1 – August 8, 2024, Mondays and Thursdays
Neighborhood: The Loop
Experience a wide variety of music from established and emerging artists during the Millennium Park Summer Music Series, performed at the iconic Jay Pritzker Pavilion on Mondays and Thursdays.
Taste of Chicago Pop-Ups
June 15, 2024 (Rogers Park); July 27, 2024 (Marquette Park); August 17, 2024 (Pullman Park)
Neighborhood: Rogers Park, Marquette Park, Pullman District
Ahead of its main September festival in Grant Park, Taste of Chicago hosts three neighborhood pop-ups, showcasing delicious food and local talent.
Millennium Park Summer Film Series
July 16 – August 20, 2024
Neighborhood: The Loop
The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) is pleased to present the Millennium Park Summer Film Series on Tuesday evenings.
Choose from a seat at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion or lounge on the Great Lawn as popular movies, including Coco, Barbie, and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off are presented on the state-of-the-art, 40-foot LED screen.
Chicago SummerDance
June – September; 2024 dates TBA
Neighborhood: The Loop
The beloved Chicago SummerDance series returns this summer at parks throughout the city.
Dancers of all ages and skill levels are invited to join introductory dance lessons by professional instructors, followed by live music and dancing.
Sundays on State
June 16 & July 14, 2024
Neighborhood: The Loop
The award-winning event series, Sundays on State, will once again transform Chicago’s iconic State Street into a vibrant block party, closing to vehicular traffic.
Enjoy art, culture, active recreation, food, drinks, shopping, and local attractions in the heart of The Loop.
May Festivals in Chicago
Chicago Mayfest
May 17-19, 2024
Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
This unofficial start to festival season kicks off summer fun with live music and the Armitage Art Show.
Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest
May 24-26, 2024
Neighborhood: Lakeview
Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest celebrates summer with local bands, artisans, and great food.
Mole de Mayo Festival
May 24 – 26, 2024
Neighborhood: Pilsen
Ignite your palate at the Mole de Mayo Festival, an outdoor food fiesta in the historic Pilsen neighborhood. Sample various mole dishes and cast your vote for the best.
Along with this culinary competition, immerse yourself in the exciting live entertainment and explore crafts by local vendors.
Randolph Street Market Festival
May 24 – 26, 2024
Neighborhood: West Loop
Celebrating two decades as America’s largest urban antiques festival, the Randolph Street Market Festival kicks off the 2024 season with a blend of creativity and nostalgia.
With 175 top independent vendors from across North America, the festival offers a curated selection of antiques, fashion, art, jewelry, décor, and more. Explore and appreciate the exceptional craft of the past and present in this unique celebration.
Sueños Music Festival
May 25 – 26, 2024
Neighborhood: The Loop
Chicago’s Grant Park is set to host the biggest Latin lineup the city has seen this May. The Sueños Music Festival will feature live performances by 20+ Reggaeton & Latin Artists.
A multitude of bars, local food vendors, art, activities, merchandise, and even a Ferris Wheel will fill the area, creating an irresistible blend of culture, music, and enjoyment.
June Festivals in Chicago
Chicago House Music Festival and Conference
May 31, 2024 at Chicago Cultural Center; June 2, 2024 at Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park
Neighborhood: The Loop
Celebrate the genre born in Chicago, with performances by Karizma, tony Touch, Farley Jackmaster Funk, and more.
The House conference returns to the Chicago Cultural Center on May 31, featuring panel discussions related to the culture, art, and business of House Music.
Do Division Street Fest
May 31, June 1-2, 2024
Neighborhood: Wicker Park
In addition to local food and live music, there’s a “Family Fun Fest” focused on entertainment for the kiddos.
Chicago Gospel Music Festival
June 1, 2024
Neighborhood: The Loop
This summer, the city will vibrate with the uplifting rhythms of the Chicago Gospel Music Festival. Held in Millennium Park, this inspiring event unites audiences of diverse ages and backgrounds.
Windy City Hot Dog Fest
June 1-2, 2024
Neighborhood: Portage Park
There’s more than one way to top a hot dog, and you can find ’em at this fest dedicated to Chicago’s favorite encased meat.
Pullman Railroad Days
June 1 – 2, 2024
Neighborhood: Pullman District
Commemorating its efforts leading to Pullman’s recognition as a National Historic Park in December 2022, this family-friendly weekend promises a unique journey into history.
With the support of Metra and the American Association of Private Railroad Car Owners, guests will explore Pullman rail cars from different eras and unveil the Foundation’s 50th-anniversary exhibit, a testament to their extensive preservation work.
Chicago Blues Festival
June 6–9, 2024
Neighborhood: The Loop
Millennium Park comes alive with top-tier talent performing across three stages at the largest free blues festival in the country.
Sunday night features a special performance by the legendary Buddy Guy.
Puerto Rican Festival Chicago
June 6-9, 2024
Neighborhood: Humboldt Park
Celebrate Puerto Rican culture in Humboldt Park with a lively three-day event featuring authentic food, drinks, carnival rides, games, and more.
Don’t miss the 46th Annual Puerto Rican People’s Day Parade on June 8, 2024, showcasing Puerto Rican arts, culture, and music.
Midsommar Fest
June 7-9, 2024
Neighborhood: Andersonville
Step into a charming old-world Swedish celebration at Andersonville’s 58th annual Midsommarfest.
Enjoy international food, dance around the Maypole, and participate in family-friendly activities like a pet parade and face painting.
Old Town Art Fair
June 8-9, 2024
Neighborhood: Old Town
Discover the works of 200+ nationally acclaimed artists at this festival in the historic Old Town Triangle District.
Old Town Art Fair also features a Garden Walk, live music, food court, and Children’s Corner.
Taste of Randolph Street
June 14-16, 2024
Neighborhood: Fulton Market
Celebrate the 27th anniversary of Taste of Randolph Street. This iconic street festival with over 16 restaurants showcasing their delectable menus and unique flavors.
Craft Brews at Lincoln Park Zoo
June 15, 2024
Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
Sample over 100 craft beers and ciders at the eighth annual Craft Brews beer festival, hosted by Lincoln Park Zoo and Lou Dog Events. Enjoy food, music, lawn games, and the zoo’s amazing animals.
Joffrey For All Free Performance
June 16, 2024
Neighborhood: Loop
Don’t miss this free performance by the Joffrey Ballet, one of the premier dance companies in the world. joffrey.org
Chicago PrideFest
June 22-23, 2024
Neighborhood: Northalsted / Lakeview
Chicago Pride Fest is a two-day street festival features live music, a Youth Pride Space, drag performances, a pet parade, dance exhibitions, Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus, a high heel race, guest speakers, and over 150 food and merchandise vendors.
Hyde Park Summer Fest
2024 Dates TBA
Neighborhood: Hyde Park
Enjoy local beers, food, music, and more at this popular neighborhood festival featuring major headlining acts.
Hyde Park Summer Fest takes place at the historic Midway Plaisance, a remnant of the 1893 World’s Fair, and has attracted huge names in music like Busta Rhymes and Lupe Fiasco in the past.
Flavors of Albany Park
2024 Dates TBA
Neighborhood: Albany Park
Eat your way around the world at Flavors of Albany Park, a one-day restaurant crawl featuring a global array of cuisine from over 70 establishments in Albany Park.
Pride in the Park Chicago
2024 Dates TBA
Neighborhood: The Loop
This annual outdoor music festival in Grant Park features LGBTQ+ performers, artists, vendors, and more.
Logan Square Arts Fest
June 28-30, 2024
Neighborhood: Logan Square
Since 2009, this festival has showcased artists of varying disciplines, neighborhood restaurants, and locally produced beer and cocktails.
The event partners with neighborhood art organizations and music venues to present visual art and diverse music representative of Logan Square.
Dragon Boat Race For Literacy
June 22, 2024
Neighborhood: Chinatown
Hosted by the Chicago Chinatown Chamber, this event at Ping Tom Memorial Park promotes Asian culture, literacy programs, and the ancient Chinese Dragon Boat Race tradition.
Chicago Pride Parade
June 30, 2024
Neighborhood: Northalsted / Lakeview
One of the most popular LGBTQ+ events in the city, the Chicago Pride Parade concludes the city’s month-long celebrations with a four-mile procession through Northalsted, Uptown, Lakeview, and Lincoln Park.
July Festivals in Chicago
Chicago Street Race Weekend
July 6 – 7, 2024
Neighborhood: The Loop
NASCAR returns to the heart of Chicago for the second year.
Chicago Street Race Weekend will challenge drivers on a 12-turn, 2.2-mile street circuit that winds past and through some of Chicago’s most iconic downtown landmarks.
Chosen Few Picnic & Festival
July 13, 2024
Neighborhood: South Side / Jackson Park
Once a small gathering of family and friends, the “old school picnic” has grown into one of the largest and most anticipated house music festival events worldwide, drawing over 40,000 house music fans from nearly every continent.
Windy City Smokeout
July 11 – 14, 2024
Neighborhood: Near West Side
Chicago’s top BBQ & Country Music Festival is back with an impressive lineup of country music stars like Carrie Underwood and Cody Johnson.
Windy City Smokeout isn’t just about music; expect mouthwatering ribs, brisket, smoked meats, and more from the world’s best pitmasters, who will be showcasing styles from Kentucky, Nashville, Missouri, and Chicago.
Square Roots Festival
July 12-14, 2024
Neighborhood: Lincoln Square
All Chicago street festivals are fun, but if you’re a craft beer fan, you’ll definitely want to add Square Roots Festival to your calendar. squareroots.org
Pitchfork Music Festival
July 19 – 21, 2024
Neighborhood: West Loop
The annual Pitchfork Music Festival returns with headliners Carly Rae Jepsen, Alanis Morisette, Black Pumas, and more. The festival, organized by Pitchfork Media, promises an unforgettable weekend of music.
Millennium Park 20th Anniversary Weekend Celebration
July 18 – 21, 2024
Neighborhood: Loop
On July 16, 2004, Millennium Park officially opened. Since then, it’s become a centerpiece and a focal point of Chicago’s summer fun.
Tacos y Tamales Festival
July 19 – 21, 2024
Neighborhood: Pilsen
Immerse yourself in Chicago’s vibrant Tacos y Tamales Festival, showcasing the city’s finest food vendors against the 16th street murals.
Enjoy a dynamic blend of live music, DJs, traditional dances, and Latin rock performances. Explore the Art Alley featuring local shopping, live art, youth programs, and indulge in a feast for your senses at this energetic weekend festival.
This four day party celebrates what has made Millennium Park one of the most popular destinations in the city, with free performances and events.
Disability Pride Parade
July 20, 2024
Neighborhood: South Loop
This year marks the 21st anniversary of the Disability Pride Parade, a powerful event that challenges societal perceptions of disability.
The mission is to dissolve internalized shame among people with disabilities and foster a society that views disability as a natural and beautiful aspect of human diversity, a source of pride and strength.
Wicker Park Fest
July 26-28, 2024
Neighborhood: Wicker Park
2024 marks the 20th year of this favorite neighborhood fest.
Chinatown Summer Fair
July 27-28, 2024
Neighborhood: Chinatown
What other neighborhood festival opens with a lion dance procession? Don’t miss this annual celebration of Chinese culture in Chicago.
August Festivals in Chicago
Lollapalooza
August 1 – 4, 2024
Neighborhood: The Loop
An annual spectacle, Lollapalooza is a four-day music festival that brings together global icons and emerging artists alike. This year’s lineup features headliners Hozier, Stray Kids, The Killers, and Blink-182.
With more than 150 musical acts spanning multiple stages, this festival held in Chicago’s Grant Park is a testament to the city’s thriving music scene.
Retro on Roscoe
August 9-11, 2024
Neighborhood: Roscoe Village
Step back in time at Retro on Roscoe, a fest focused on yesteryear. Listen to the oldies and marvel over antiques and classic cars.
Bud Billiken Parade
August 10, 2024
Neighborhood: South Side
The Bud Billiken Parade holds the title of the nation’s largest African American parade. Since 1929, this summer event has been unifying African Americans throughout Chicago, celebrating the rich heritage of the city’s South Side with music, dance, food, and camaraderie.
Northalsted Market Days
August 10 – 11, 2024
Neighborhood: Northalsted / Lakeview
Northalsted Market Days is a weekend-long street festival dedicated to celebrating the community in Chicago’s Northalsted / Lakeview district.
The festival stretches half a mile and features a non-stop lineup of live music across five stages, over 200 unique vendors offering arts, crafts, food and drink, and endless dancing.
The Chicago Air and Water Show
August 10 – 11, 2024
Neighborhood: Lakefront
Presented by the City of Chicago, the Chicago Air and Water Show is the largest free show of its kind in the U.S.
Offering spectacular displays along the lakefront, the focal point of the show is North Avenue Beach, where breathtaking feats of aviation and marine prowess are on full display.
Broadway in Chicago Free Summer Concert
August 12, 2024
Neighborhood: Loop
Get a preview of the upcoming Broadway in Chicago season with selections from the next season’s performances. Takes place in the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park.
Lyric Opera’s “Sunday in the Park with Lyric”
August 25, 2024
Neighborhood: Loop
Stretch out on the Great Lawn in Millennium Park while artists from The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center perform a variety of favorites from the 2024/25 Season.
They’ll be accompanied by members of the Lyric Opera Orchestra and conducted by Lyric Music Director Enrique Mazzola.
Chicago Black Dance Legacy Project: Divination: The Dancing Souls of Black Folk
August 24, 2024
Neighborhood: The Loop
Experience the talents of ten dynamic dance companies in this performance exploring the divine, mystical, and spiritual ways our ancestors communicate and celebrate with us. This event is part of the Millennium Park Residency Program.
September Chicago Festivals
Chicago Jazz Festival
August 28 – September 1, 2024
Neighborhood: The Loop
A cultural staple of the city, the Chicago Jazz Festival is an aural delight that celebrates the rich history and contemporary allure of Jazz music.
Held in the heart of the city at the Chicago Cultural Center and Millennium Park, this multi-day festival showcases a stellar lineup of local talent and international Jazz legends.
African Festival of the Arts
August 30 – September 2, 2024
Neighborhood: Washington Park
African Festival of the Arts is one of Chicago’s major neighborhood festivities and is the premier nationwide Labor Day Weekend celebration of Black cultures around the globe.
This cultural gathering, signifying the close of summer, transports attendees to a reimagined African village right in the heart of Chicago. The festival offers non-stop entertainment across two stages, encapsulating the broad spectrum of Black music from around the world.
With plentiful activities to enjoy, it guarantees a memorable experience for all family members.
Taste of Chicago
September 6 – 8, 2024
Neighborhood: The Loop
The Taste Of Chicago is one of the city’s most popular free festivals. Every summer millions attend this festival in Grant Park that highlights Chicago cuisine and showcases both local and national musical acts.
Chicago German-American Oktoberfest
September 6-8, 2024
Neighborhood: Lincoln Square
Get out your dirndl and your steins for Oktoberfest, a free festival celebrating German heritage.
Riot Fest
September 20-22, 2024
Neighborhood: North Lawndale/Pilsen
Riot Fest returns to Douglass Park. Lineup for this three-day music fest TBA.
Hyde Park Jazz Festival
September 28-29, 2024
Neighborhood: Hyde Park
The Hyde Park Jazz Festival is a two-day celebration where Chicago’s vibrant jazz scene takes center stage.
Honored as the ‘Best Event of the Year 2021’ by TimeOut Magazine, this free festival sprawls across 14 stages in the heart of Hyde Park, uniting over 20,000 jazz fans.
More articles to help you explore Chicago:
- You’ll never be bored with these best things to do in Chicago
- I’m on a boat! Check out these Chicago boat tours
- Chicago on a budget: how to save money in the Windy City
- Road trips from Chicago, for when you want to get out of town
- Chicago in winter: yes, the city’s “cool” in winter, too!
- Tiptoe through the tulips during Chicago in spring
- Discover why the Field Museum is the beloved institution that almost wasn’t
- How one man’s vision became the Museum of Science and Industry