Enjoy the sunny days with awesome activities that’ll make your summer shine. From chilling at the beach to grooving at music festivals, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Explore new spots and cool shops to add some excitement to your summer days. Check out these eight activities happening this weekend to help soak up the sun!
Celebrate Creativity at the Wilmette Art Festival
The Wilmette Art Festival is a vibrant showcase of artistic talent from local and regional artists. Visitors can browse through a diverse collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, photography, and more. The festival offers a unique opportunity to connect with artists, appreciate their creative expressions, and even purchase one-of-a-kind pieces to take home.
Dates: August 5-6
Time: 10AM-5PM
Cost: Free
Location: Wilmette & Central Ave, Wilmette
More Info: amdurproductions.com
Spend an Enchanting Ravinia Evening with the Magic Flute
Ravinia presents Mozart’s enchanting opera The Magic Flute performed by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Marin Alsop. This timeless tale of love, magic, and wisdom is brought to life with beautiful music and captivating performances. Audiences can immerse themselves in the artistry of Mozart’s masterpiece in the picturesque setting of Ravinia.
Date: August 4
Time: 5PM
Cost: $17
Location: Ravinia Festival, 201 Ravinia Park Rd, Highland Park
More info: ravinia.org
Cover Band Tributosaurus Becomes the Rolling Stones
The Wheeling Park District is hosting a tribute concert this weekend: Tributosaurus Pays Homage to The Rolling Stones. With their beloved covers, Tributosaurus captures the essence of the iconic rock band’s music and stage presence. Music enthusiasts can enjoy an evening of classic hits and iconic rock ‘n’ roll melodies.
Date: August 4
Time: 7PM
Cost: Free
Location: Heritage Park Performance Pavilion, 201 Community Blvd, Wheeling
More info: wheelingparkdistrict.com
Lollapalooza: Chicago’s Iconic Music Festival
Lollapalooza is one of the biggest and most iconic music festivals in the world, attracting music lovers from all walks of life. The festival features an impressive lineup of top-tier musicians and bands from various genres, spanning rock, pop, hip-hop, electronic, and more. Lollapalooza offers a multi-day extravaganza of live music, art installations, food vendors, and a unique festival atmosphere.
Dates: August 3-6
Time: 12-10PM
Cost: $135+
Location: Grant Park, 331 E Randolph St, The Loop
More Info: lollapalooza.com
Accio LeakyCon!
LeakyCon is a magical fan convention dedicated to the world of Harry Potter and J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World. Potterheads from all over come to celebrate their love for the series. Attendees can enjoy panel discussions, interactive experiences, wizard-themed activities, cosplay contests, and meet special guests from the Harry Potter universe.
Dates: August 4-6
Time: 9AM-7PM
Cost: $79+
Location: Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, 2233 S Martin Luther King Dr, South Loop
More Info: leakycon.com
Get Dancing at the Bronzeville Neighborhood Jazz Festival
Jazz lovers everywhere should attend the Bronzeville Neighborhood Jazz Festival, a dynamic celebration of jazz music in Chicago’s historic Bronzeville neighborhood. The festival features talented jazz musicians performing in various styles, from traditional to contemporary. Patrons who attend will enjoy the soulful melodies, vibrant rhythms, and great street food while experiencing the rich cultural heritage of Bronzeville.
Date: August 5
Time: 12-8:30PM
Cost: Free
Location: South Martin Luther King Dr from 39th St to 37th St, Bronzeville
More Info: bronzeville-neighborhood-jazz-festival.com
Party Hard at Jeff Fest
The Jefferson Park Arts & Music Festival (known locally as Jeff Fest) is a community-driven event that celebrates arts, music, and food. The festival offers live music performances from local and national bands, an artisan market showcasing unique crafts, a variety of food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Come join a fun and inclusive atmosphere for all to enjoy!
Dates: August 4-6
Time: Fri 5-10PM; Sat and Sun 2-10PM
Cost: Free
Location: 4822 N Long Ave, Jefferson Park
More Info: chicagoevents.com
Drink and Be Merry at Dancing in the Streets
Dancing in the Streets is part of the West Town Art Walk, a vibrant celebration of art, culture, and community. The event highlights West Town‘s growing beer scene amidst the art installations, pop-up galleries, live music performances, and dance showcases of the rest of the festival. Visitors can stroll through the neighborhood, engage with local artists, and experience the creative energy that defines West Town.
Dates: August 4-6
Time: Friday: 5-10PM; Sat and Sun: 1-10PM
Cost: Free
Location: Hubbard Street between Paulina and Wood, West Town
More Info: westtownchamber.org
