Summer is here with plenty of opportunities to explore different neighborhoods, enjoy music and food at street festivals, and discover new cultural opportunities. Here’s a round-up of five activities that we found most interesting for you this week!
Coast Over to North Coast
One of the last big music festivals of the summer is coming: North Coast! This techno and EDM festival uses lights, color, pyrotechnics, and much more to make each set more fun than the next. You may be there for Diplo, but don’t skip the art installations, photo ops, and local food & drinks.
Date: September 2-4
Time: Fri & Sat 2:00 – 12:00PM; Sun 2:00 – 10:30PM
Cost: Starting at $114+
Location: SeatGeek Stadium, Bridgeview, 700 S Harlem Ave
More info: northcoastfestival.com
Chicago Onscreen and Outdoors!
The Chicago Park District is hosting their own local, outdoor film festival with multiple screens and lots of Chicago talent. You can catch features and shorts from some of the city’s most impressive up-and-coming artists. Bring a picnic blanket and get ready to enjoy!
Date: September 2
Time: 7:30 – 10:30PM
Cost: Free
Location: Washington (Harold) Park, Hyde Park, 5200 S Hyde Park Blvd
More info: chicagoparkdistrict.com
The Experience Currently Known as “Prince”
Immerse yourself in this multisensory and interactive art installation celebrating the beloved artist at Prince: The Experience. Walk through the world of Prince to see the iconic Purple Rain cover come to life in front of you. You’ll check out his old costumes, dance to his greatest hits, and take pictures with classic memorabilia. This is a limited run experience, so get your tickets before it leaves Chicago.
Date: Runs Fridays & Saturdays through September
Time: 10:00AM – 9:00PM
Cost: Starting at $29.50+
Location: River North, 540 N Michigan Ave
More info: princetheexperience.com
We Heart Art on the Mart
This is the last weekend to catch this set of artists on the face of one of Chicago’s iconic buildings. This free and always beautiful event is the perfect backdrop to a classic Chicago summer night. Come back next weekend to check out the new artists!
Date: Nightly
Time: 9:00PM & 9:30PM
Cost: Free
Location: Merch Mart, Near North Side, 350 N Wells St
More info: artonthemart.com
Only the Best for A Midwest Lobster Fest
Pinch me… it’s The Great American Lobster Fest! The Midwest’s largest lobster and seafood fest is back and better than ever. Of course there is lobster, but you can also enjoy music, dancing, drinks, and family-friendly activities. Enjoy a beautiful day on Navy Pier with this fun fest!
Date: September 2-4
Time: 12:00 – 9:00PM
Cost: Starting at $70+
Location: Navy Pier, Streeterville, 600 E Grand Ave
More info: americanlobsterfest.com