Summertime is the best time in Chicago. As May turns to June, the city comes alive with activities, and there’s truly something for everyone. To help you make the most of the warmest months in the Second City, here’s a look at 8 can’t-miss things to do this June and July.
Movies in the Parks
Dates: Ongoing
For the 18th straight year, the Chicago Park District will bring some of Hollywood’s finest to parks across the city. Movies in the Parks events will take place at Bell Park, Berger Park, Bartelme Park, Homan Square Park, Kedvale Park, McKiernan Playground Park, Washington Park and other locations across the city.
Movies slated for showings this summer include Ghostbusters, Home Alone, The Color Purple, Wonder Woman and others. All movies begin at dusk, and admission is free. Learn more.
Friday Afternoons at Wrigley
Dates: June 8 and 29, July 6 and 20
It’s been exactly 30 years since Wrigley Field became the last Major League stadium to install lights. While the Cubs still play a balanced schedule of day and night games, they have carved out the tradition of making Fridays day games-only when the schedule puts them at home.
So, consider knocking off early from work some Friday afternoon this summer and heading to Wrigleyville for a dog and a few Old Styles. June and July give you 4 chances to participate in the Cubs’ Friday afternoon tradition: June 8 against the Pirates, June 29 against the Twins, July 6 against the Reds and July 20 against the hated Cardinals.
Taste of Randolph
Dates: June 15 to 17
In June, Randolph Street explodes with one of Chicago’s best summertime music festivals — the Taste of Randolph. Each year, the lineup includes artists, groups and DJs you won’t want to miss.
But the Taste of Randolph lets you enjoy some of Chicago’s finest food, too. This year’s participating restaurants include Alhambra Palace, Bar Siena, bellyQ, Chicken Shop, City Winery, CONE, Forno Rosso, Gideon Sweet, The Backdoor Saloon, La Sardine, MAD Social, Publican Quality Meats, Ronero and Roister’s. Learn more.
Millennium Park Concert Series
Dates: Every Monday and Thursday from June 18 to Aug. 16
As May turns to June, the days keep getting longer, the weather keeps getting warmer — and you can count on enjoying those long days and the nice weather each Monday and Thursday night at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park.
The 2018 Millennium Park Summer Music Series begins on June 18 with a Jose James Tribute to Bill Withers plus the Kahil El'Zabar Ethnic Heritage Ensemble. It ends on Aug. 16 with performances by The Sea and Cake plus Moonrise Nation.
And the best part of the Summer Concert Series: Each show is free. Learn more.
Fireworks at Navy Pier
Date: July 4
You can find fireworks at Navy Pier throughout the summer. It holds fireworks shows over Lake Michigan each Wednesday and Saturday from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
But nothing beats the fireworks show on the Fourth of July. You can choose to watch them from shore, from the Pier itself, or from one of Lake Michigan’s many cruise ships. Learn more.
Taste of Chicago
Dates: July 11 to 15
One of the nation’s premier food festivals takes place each year right here in Chicago. The Taste of Chicago sets up shop this July 11 to 15 in Grant Park, where you’ll find food, music and a general homage to all that makes Chicago wonderful.
Wander around Grant Park and enjoy the best food in Chicago. As you wander, enjoy live music from 2 stages. Top acts from around the country will perform at the Petrillo Music Shell, and the Bud Light Stage will be reserved for local bands and artists only. Learn more.
Wicker Park Fest
Dates: July 27 to 29
Wicker Park Fest is everything that people love about Chicago: food, fashion, music, culture and much more.
Taking place over 3 days on Milwaukee Avenue (between North Avenue and Paulina Street), the Wicker Park fest includes music on 4 different stages and the opportunity to commune with both Chicago locals and those who venture in from out of town to enjoy this can’t-miss event.
There’s a reason why the Chicago Tribune calls it “Chicago’s best street festival of the summer.” Learn more.
Farmers Markets
Dates: Ongoing
If you really want to taste Chicago, you must visit one of the Chicago City Markets. While many of the market locations are open year-round, others are only available during summertime. These farmers markets bring what’s best from the local area and make it available to anyone willing to stop by.
Locations include the Maxwell Street Market, the 95th Street Farmers Market, the Logan Square Farmers Market, the Portage Park Farmers Market, the McKinley Park Farmers Market, The Wicker Park Farmers Market and many others. Find days and hours of operation at the City of Chicago website. Learn more.
The KlopasStratton Team: Your Chicago Experts
The KlopasStratton Team knows Chicago inside and out. We can point you toward the best events and activities during summertime — and we can also help you find the perfect home or sell your existing property for its peak value.
Get in touch to talk about buying or selling a home in Chicago.
