July in Chicago means long days, late sunsets, and no shortage of things to do. Whether you’re chasing live music, fireworks, food festivals, or art exhibitions, this month brings the kind of high-energy, culture-packed calendar that makes summer here feel so electric. From classic traditions like the 4th on 53rd Parade to major headliners at Lollapalooza and fresh exhibitions at the Art Institute, we’ve gathered the best things to do in July in Chicago and the suburbs — so you don’t miss a minute.
Tag us in your summer adventures on Instagram @makeitbetter_foundation — we’d love to see where the month takes you.
All Month
Gustave Caillebotte: Painting His World
Impressionist artist Gustave Caillebotte (1848–1894)—known and beloved by many Art Institute visitors for his monumental painting Paris Street; Rainy Day—takes center stage in this major exhibition exploring the very personal interests and relationships that shaped his world. Catch it through October 5, details at the Art Institute online.
Free Summer Screenings
Summer Screenings return with “Summer of Love,” featuring 21 free films from 21 countries about the ways love manifests in our lives. Held at the Chicago Cultural Center on Mondays and the Chicago History Museum on Wednesdays, each film will spotlight a different country’s national cinema all summer long. Catch this series through August 20.
The Color Purple at the Goodman
Twenty years since its Broadway musical debut, The Color Purple is reborn in Lili-Anne Brown’s revelatory production. The musical stage adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize- and National Book Award-winning novel is a heart-rending and joyous story of a young woman’s perilous journey of personal awakening in the American South. See the run until July 27.
En el principio / In the beginning: Juliana Góngora Rojas, Matías Quintero Sepúlveda, Juven Piranga Valencia, and Yinela Piranga Valencia
This installation marks the first solo exhibition of Colombian sculptor Juliana Góngora at a major museum in the United States. Working primarily with organic matter—soil, salt, stones, spider threads—Góngora highlights the transformative potential of everyday actions and materials, and the innate ties between human beings and nature. You can see the exhibit until July 28.
Tuesdays on the Terrace
Enjoy free music on the MCA’s Anne and John Kern Terrace Garden with the annual summer concert series — now in its 26th year. Tuesdays on the Terrace continues to offer an expansive lineup of diverse musical acts, with genres like pop, soul, R&B, jazz and more. Plus light fare and refreshments from the bar, while relaxing on the terrace. Find more details online at Tuesdays on the Terrace.
Frida Kahlo’s Month in Paris: A Friendship with Mary Reynolds
Drawing upon the Mary Reynolds Collection at the Art Institute and extraordinary Kahlo loans from public and private collections in the US, Mexico, and Europe, the exhibition recounts the legacies of Kahlo and Reynolds as they navigated Surrealism, identity, and cross-cultural exchange on the eve of World War II. See it before it closes on July 13.
LEGO® DREAMZZZ: Agents Wanted Event
Join the LEGO DREAMZzz adventure, running now through July 29 at the LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Meet Mateo & Z-Blob, defend the dream world, enjoy creative activities and a 4D movie. Check out the LEGO® DREAMZZZ website for details, tickets and more.
601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg
Movies at the Parks
The beautiful Chicago Parks system returns with the Movies in the Parks series, a part of the larger Night Out in the Parks initiative. Enjoy family-friendly movies that range from newer releases to kid favorites, all while reclining on the lawn of your local park. Head over to the Chicago Park District online for dates, locations and movie lineups.
Pouring Park: A Global Cocktail Journey
From now through the new year, celebrate Park Hyatt’s 45th anniversary with a global cocktail journey—no passport needed. Enjoy iconic drinks from nine destinations, each crafted to reflect its culture. Every 45 days, two new cocktails debut at participating locations, offering a taste of the world, one sip at a time.
July 2-6: Independence Week at Navy Pier
Chicago’s iconic landmark, Navy Pier, is presenting a diverse mix of events during the first week of July in celebration of Independence Day. Highlights from the week include the highly anticipated NASCAR Chicago Family Fest, Budweiser Clydesdales Cross-Country Tour, and Independence Week Fireworks celebration, all on July 2. There will also be trivia on July 3 and live music from July 4-6 at the Navy Pier Beer Garden.
July 4: 4th on 53rd Parade
For over 30 years, the 4th on 53rd Parade has been “Chicago’s favorite” Independence Day parade — and that continues this year. Over in Hyde Park, the parade kicks off at 11 a.m. and will include marching bands, floats, community groups and kids on decorated bikes. But don’t leave so soon, because following the parade is a free festival from 12-3 p.m., featuring performances, face painting, a petting zoo, a magician and much more. Find the route details on 4th on 53rd Parade site.
July 5-6: NASCAR Chicago Street Race Weekend
Once again, NASCAR is bringing all the horsepower and electrifying speed of the race track to downtown Chicago. While tickets are still available for the race, that’s not the only exciting thing about the weekend, stick around for the live music festival, featuring the Zac Brown Band. Anyone with a need for speed and some summer fun need not look further than this two-day fest. Various packages can be purchased for entry into the festival and races, visit the NASCAR Chicago site for details.
July 11-13: International Festival of Life
Returning for a 32nd year, the African/Caribbean International Festival of Life will be just as vibrant and celebratory as ever. Head on down to 24th Street for a day of food, community and music — with a range of genres from R&B to Reggae, and a mix of others. No better way to celebrate than with friends, family and Chicago as the backdrop. More information can be found on the festival’s website.
July 11-13: Square Roots Festival
Lincoln Square is welcoming Chicagoans to head over to their little slice of the city for a weekend-long, music-packed festival fit for the whole family. The fest runs down Lincoln Ave. from Wilson to Montrose and is filled with music stages — even one for kid’s music — food and drink vendors, activities and more. The entry fee is a suggested donation, all of which will be donated to Old Town School of Folk Music and the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce.
July 11-14: Windy City Smokeout
Country music lovers and grilled food enjoyers will be geared up for this year’s Windy City Smoke Out, happening this month. On top of the awesome lineup of live music, you are treated to a near-endless supply of barbecue vendors and their delicious goods. Grab your tickets while you can — details at Windy City Smoke Out.
Outside of United Center
July 12: Chicago Gospel Music Festival
This free, inspirational music festival brings audiences of all ages and backgrounds together to celebrate the power of music. Head down to Millennium Park to enjoy the good sounds and great atmosphere with others. Visit Chicago Gospel Music Festival for details.
July 12-13: Southport Art Fest
The Southport Art Fest is back this July as one of Chicago’s cherished neighborhood festivals, bringing together an incredible lineup of 100 artists and a street festival atmosphere—plus free admission for all. Browse unique, high-quality art, savor the food of local restaurants, and explore charming boutique shops and theaters. Parents, stop by the Kids Art Zone, with face painting, personalized poems, and tons of other activities for the whole family. Details at Southport Art Fest online.
July 12-13: Summer Sidewalk Sales & Tails
This summer in the Lakeview Roscoe Village area, Chicagoans needn’t decide between shopping local and spending time with their furry friend. At the Summer Sidewalk Sales & Tails, guests can visit stores along Roscoe St., Lincoln Ave., Paulina St. & Southport Ave. to shop summer styles on the sidewalk and enjoy amazing discounts — and since it’s outside, four-legged friends are welcome. Check out the participating locations when you visit the Lakeview Roscoe Village website.
July 16: Margarita Night with Celebrate Highwood
Celebrate Highwood is proud to announce the return of its themed Margarita Night on July 16 from 4:30-9 PM during its Wednesday Evening Gourmet Market. This festive theme night invites attendees to dress in their favorite Jimmy Buffet-style, Parrothead and Hawaiian gear to party to the sounds of South of Disorder, a Jimmy Buffet tribute band. There will be beach balls, flamingos, margaritas, Mexican food, key lime pie and more!
Everts Park, 111 North Ave.
July 17: Taco Crawl 2025
“Tacos aren’t just a meal, they’re a cultural treasure and a delicious tribute to Mexico’s vibrant culinary heritage.” Come share in the good times with an afternoon dedicated to tacos and the local eateries that make them. Choose from two tempting crawl routes, along Clark St. between Devon Ave. and Rogers Ave., each showcasing local culinary gems. Limited tickets will be available. Rain or shine. Details at Taco Crawl 2025 online.
July 17: The Queen’s Museum at Open Lands
The monarch of the realm commissions the housing of her personal collection of artifacts, for the inspiration and edification of the populace. What a wonderful plan! What could go wrong? There’s this band of down-on-their-luck pirates, drawn to the scent of plunder and rousing dance numbers!
July 18: Roaring Nights at Brookfield Zoo Chicago
Join us for three unforgettable nights of music, fun, and celebration as Brookfield Zoo Chicago marks over 90 years of service, with Roaring Nights. Set against the backdrop of the Zoo’s landscapes and diverse wildlife, immerse yourself in the sounds of three incredible bands in June, July, and August. Find more details on the Brookfield Zoo Chicago site.
July 18-20: Roscoe Village Burger Fest
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Returning again for its 18th year, the competition to see who makes Chicago’s Best Burger is getting fired up. The best burger joints in the city come together to grill it out and see who really is the best of the best. Lucky Chicagoans get to reap the benefits by coming through, grabbing a delicious burger and voting for who their favorite is, all while enjoying live music. This three-day event is in the heart of Roscoe Village and perfect for kids, too, since there will be a “Kids’ Zone” for activities. Visit Burger Fest for more.
July 18-20: West Fest Chicago
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West Fest Chicago reflects the eclectic West Town community. Featured at the event will be renowned, cutting-edge live music programmed by Empty Bottle Presents, plus Bass By The Pound DJ Stage. West Fest Chicago uniquely pulls together neighborhood retailers and restaurants, local fine artists and makers, as well as Kid Fest and Pet Fest, for one great outing for all. More information can be found on West Fest Chicago.
July 18-August 10: Billie Jean at Chicago Shakespeare Theater
Chicago Shakespeare Theater presents the world premiere of an electrifying new play about Billie Jean King. Following her path to becoming a sports icon, from her record-breaking victories to her relentless fight for equal rights, Billie Jean brings us closer than ever to a woman whose battle for equality has inspired generations.
July 19-20: Ravenswood on Tap
Malt Row in Ravenswood “is one of the most prolific craft brewing communities in the country.” And to celebrate that feat, the community will host Ravenswood On Tap — a two-day outdoor festival that is all about supporting (and drinking) local. Enjoy beers from Malt Row breweries, KOVAL Distillery cocktails, special tappings, incredible live music, delicious street food, local artists and artisans, axe-throwing and more. Visit Ravenswood on Tap for details.
Ravenswood and Berteau avenues
July 20: Andersonville Vintage Market
This annual event features antiques, home décor, jewelry, clothing, accessories, vinyl and other goodies from local retailers. Come treasure hunt for vintage finds from more than 30 vendors on four dates throughout the coming months: July 20, August 17, September 21, and October 19. Head to their new location this year at 1500 W. Winona for summer fun. Pets are welcome. Check out Andersonville Vintage Market online for more.
July 23-August 10: BOOK UP! Goodman Theatre in partnership with Chicago Park District
A traveling librarian rolls into town with their magical book cart, ready to spark big imaginations everywhere through juggling, tumbling, clowning and aerial acrobatics! This wonderous outdoor circus spectacle, presented by Goodman Theatre in partnership with Chicago Park District, invites children ages 0-5 (and their grown-ups!) to move, play, and discover the magic of reading. All performances are free.
July 24-27: Lincolnwood Fest
Four whole days of live music and events are what attendees can count on when they buy a pass to Lincolnwood Fest. When not jamming out, wander through the rest of the grounds where you’ll find a carnival and countless food vendors. While this space is family-friendly, that doesn’t have to stop parents from partaking in the beer and wine garden on site, too. Find more details at Lincolnwood Fest.
July 25-27: Crosstown Classic: Sox vs. Cubs
For many years, the Chicago White Sox and the Chicago Cubs have played each other in a crosstown clash of baseball fun. This summer is no different! Catch the famous matchup at Rates Field in Bridgeport this July, and soak up the Chicago pride while enjoying a day at the ball park. Tickets are online, and more information can be found here.
July 26-27: Chinatown Summer Fair
Every year, this fest held in Chinatown garners thousands of people from throughout the region. Donned “a true celebration of Far East beauty and culture,” the fest will also include food, art and music from local vendors. The fest is located on Wentworth Avenue from Cermak Avenue to 24th Place — and will include a lion dance procession, kung fu demonstrations, samplings from Chinatown’s restaurants & unique gift shops, arts & crafts exhibits, street vendors with an array of merchandise and a children’s area. Attendees with questions on what else to expect can find more information on the Chinatown Summer Fair website.
July 31: Lollapalooza
Live music lovers from near and far know that summertime in Chicago also means Lollapalooza, the epic, 4-day festival that brings thousands to Grant Park — this year through August 3. Headliners this year include Tyler, The Creator, Sabrina Carpenter, and so many more talented acts. Some ticket packages — from single day tickets to 4-day passes — are still available on the Lollapalooza website. What else can we even say to convince you? Secure your tickets now!
July 31: Fiesta del Sol
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For over 50 years, Fiesta del Sol has proudly been the “largest Latino festival of its kind in the country.” Held in Pilsen, and known for its stages full of talented artists, Fiesta del Sol is meant for anyone who loves live music, authentic food and the embrace of a community. The Fiesta del Sol website features a recap of last year’s event for anyone curious before they buy their ticket — though we are pretty sure you’re going to enjoy yourself either way! This fest runs until August 3.
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Margaret Smith is a Chicago-based writer and editor with a passion for socio-political storytelling about their community. They are a graduate of Columbia College Chicago.
