All that anticipation for summer has led us here, to a sunny, activity-filled July. From 4th of July to NASCAR, music festivals and more, it’s going to be a busy, fun month! To help you plan, we round up the best things to do in Chicago and the suburbs every month so you can spend these precious days of summer exactly how you want.
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All Month
Harry Potter™: Magic at Play in Chicago
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The unique, hands-on experience of Harry Potter™: Magic at Play “will engage the imaginations of all ages to bring out the young witch or wizard in all of us.” With various activities — like using your wand for to spells — guests will have the ability to explore, climb and play their way through three floors of adventure. While newbies to Harry Potter lore will enjoy themselves, this live experience is suited for even the most devout Potter head. Tickets and logistics for your visit are located on the Harry Potter™: Magic at Play website.
The Spongebob Musical
If you want to be transported down to Bikini Bottom with Spongebob and the gang, all you need is a ticket to Kokandy Productions’ Spongebob The Musical — running now through September 3 at Chopin Theatre. When citizens of Bikini Bottom realize their life is in danger, it’s up to Spongebob and friends to save their underwater home. The show is for audiences of all ages — guaranteed to be a splash hit with the little ones. Grab your tickets now at The Spongebob Musical online.
Navy Pier Fireworks
Every summer, Navy Pier lights up the skyline of Lake Michigan with a glorious display of fireworks. The show gets a little more patriotic come the beginning of July as they prepare for the 4th. But have no doubts that no matter when you catch the fireworks — either on Wednesdays or Sundays — the whole family will be in awe. Check out the Navy Pier website for specifics.
No Man’s Land
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After an evening of drink and laughter, the wealthy, aging Hirst and his acquaintance Spooner find themselves taken aback by the arrival of two “sinister” younger men. “A generational power struggle, a tug of war between expert wordsmiths, a maze of murky meaning. Or perhaps it’s just two old English sots waxing nostalgic and waiting for the sun to rise.” Catch this show while you can, performing at Steppenwolf July 13 – August 20 — find more details at No Man’s Land.
Movies at the Parks
The beautiful Chicago Parks system is in full use this summer with a number of outdoor events all over the city. But none bring in a more steady crowd than the Movies in the Parks series, a part of the city’s larger Night 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.
Live @ Lighthouse
The immersive exhibits at Lighthouse Art Space have brought thousands flocking to see the interpretations of legendary artists the likes of Mozart, Frida Kahlo and Vincent van Gogh. In a new exploration, join them for a live concert series where rotating musical guests will entertain audiences to the backdrop of moving images. Indulge in the multi-sensory experience — running until the end of August — and grab your tickets while you still can, find them at Lighthouse Art Space.
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
The tale as old as time comes to Chicago this summer, showing at Chicago Shakespeare Theater July 14 – August 20. Join Belle, the Beast and all their companions for this wondrous, 75-minute musical that has won the hearts of families for decades. Don’t miss your chance to swoon to the music and wonder of these beloved Disney songs — ticket reservations can be made at Chicago Shakespeare Theater.
Hellenic Heads: George Petrides
Inspired by his own Greek heritage, sculptor George Petrides examined 2,500 years of Greek history and conducted extensive research to produce his latest exhibit Hellenic Heads. Talking with family and examining archaeological artifacts were just some of the lengths Petrides went to for his final product: six larger-than-life busts, approximately three feet in height, standing taller than six feet on pedestals. Want to marvel at the wonder of history meeting art? Visit the National Hellenic Museum July 21 – December 10, tickets are $10.
July 1 – 2: NASCAR Chicago Street Race Weekend
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For the first time ever, 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, including artists like The Chainsmokers, Miranda Lambert and more. Anyone with a need for speed — or a need to enjoy 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 1 – 2: NASCAR Pit Party at Millennium Hall
The NASCAR Pit Party at Millennium Hall is a premier food and entertainment event for Chicagoans and racing fans to experience the city’s the official NASCAR Chicago Street Race. Just steps from the course and situated beneath the iconic Cloud Gate, Millennium Hall will feature floor-to-ceiling TV coverage of the race, the city’s largest beer garden and Executive Chef Michael “Wally” Wallach’s special “NASCAR Pit Menu.”
For reservations and more information, visit www.millenniumhallchicago.com.
July 1 – 4: International Festival of Life
Returning for a lively 30th year, the African/Caribbean International Festival of Life will be just as vibrant and celebratory as ever. Head on down to Washington Park 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 4: July 4th Fireworks Cruise!
Want to see the beauty of the fireworks but from the vantage point of the Lake? Not to worry, this booze cruise has you covered. Patrons will enjoy snacks, plenty of drinks as well as dancing to a live DJ while overlooking the skyline and light show. Tickets sell fast every year, grab yours and celebrate the holiday with a little flair this year. More details on what to expect and how to reserve your spot can be found on the Fireworks Cruise site.
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: An American Salute: Rhapsody in Blue
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Pianist Michelle Cann returns to the Grant Park Orchestra to perform “George Gershwin’s irresistible mashup of classical and jazz, Rhapsody in Blue.” The concert also includes a number of talented musicians playing memorable, patriotic renditions of songs, such as Stars and Stripes Forever. This program is just one installation of many in the Grant Park Music Festival, which runs every summer. Get your tickets now and see this season’s lineup at Grant Park Music online.
July 7: Doggie Ice Cream Social
Looking to cool down you and your four-legged friend on a summer day? Stop into Cody’s Public House in West Lakeview from 5-7pm on July 7, where guests can enjoy free, fresh-off-the-grill Chicago hot dogs and their pup will be treated to complimentary ice cream with dog-friendly toppings. This happy hour — which also includes a raffle and outdoor games — is actually a fundraiser for Second City Canine Rescue, sponsored by K-9 University, and could use the community support. Check out more details at Cody’s Public House.
July 7 – 9: Roscoe Village Burger Fest
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Returning yet again for its 16th year, the competition to see who makes Chicago’s Best Burger is getting fired up. Over 10 of 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 7 – 9: Square Roots Festival
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Lincoln Square is welcoming Chicagoland 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 13 – 16: Windy City Smoke Out
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With names like Luke Bryan and Zac Brown Band in the lineup, any self-respecting country music lover will be geared up for this year’s Windy City Smoke Out. Not there for the music? Then you must be there for the near-endless supply of barbecue vendors are cooking up this year. No matter what your reasoning, you better grab your tickets fast — details at Windy City Smoke Out.
July 14 – 16: The Sweetest Season: A Gathering of Indigenous Creativity
Back for a 2nd successful year, The Sweetest Season has expanded to include multiple performances of spoken word and song showcase; staged readings; workshops; a Native-curated gathering; and more — all held at the Goodman Theatre. The program is presented in partnership with The Mitchell Museum of the American Indian. Chicagoans who want to celebrate Indigenous art and creativity can find specifics about the event at The Sweetest Season online.
July 14 – 16: Millennium Art Festival
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Come witness over 140 artists from near and far as they exhibit their work at the Millennium Art Festival — with mediums like painting, photography, furniture making, ceramics and much more. The fest will also include food and live music, not to mention the interactive Kid’s Art Stop and Live Art Demo. These kinds of fests are what make summertime-Chi what it is, so don’t miss out!
July 15: Native Plant Sale
Calling all gardeners! If you want to spruce up your green space this summer come on down to the Lakeview Low-Line Market Native Plant Sale from 9am-3pm. Here, shoppers will find over 30 species of native wildflowers, sedges and ferns. And of course, the opportunity will arise to swap tips and tricks with other enthusiasts as well. Check out the Native Plant Sale for specifics.
3410 N Southport Ave, Chicago
July 15: World Music & Food Fest
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The Lot in Highland Park is at it again with a summer full of family-fun, live music and good food. The World Music & Food Fest is no exception, with an array of cuisines and a lineup of tunes that will take you out of your comfort zone and into the excitement of Chicagoland’s multicultural makeup. Find out what else to expect by visiting the World Music & Food Fest website.
July 21 – 23: Pitchfork Music Festival
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One of the many music festivals every summer is Pitchfork Music Fest, which has been dubbed “Chicago’s local music festival “since 2006. Jam out to a lineup that includes heavy hitters like King Krule, Bon Iver and 40+ other musicians. The festival pulls in roughly 60,000 audience members annually — and they can’t all be wrong about how fun this fest is! Visit the Pitchfork Music Festival website for lineup details, tickets and what else to expect when you go.
July 22: North Shore Taco 5K Family Fun Run, Walk & Stroll
Highwood sure knows how to draw a crowd with their summer lineup of family-friendly events. And that includes the North Shore Taco 5K Family Fun Run, Walk & Stroll — where all participants will receive a race t-shirt, complimentary taco from award winning La Plancha Loca, and for participants 21 and older, an alcoholic beverage to enjoy at Taco Fest. The event is located at Everts Park, near the Highwood Metra Station. Check out the rest of the schedule for Highwood Days by visiting the Highwood website where you can learn more about race registration, too.
July 22 – 23: Ravenswood on Tap
Malt Row in Ravenswood “is one of the most prolific craft brewing communities in the country.” And to celebrate that feat, in its 6th year, 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 22 – 23: 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., Belmont Ave., 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 25: Vintage Rides: Classic Car Show
Downtown Wheaton hosts a recurring Vintage Rides event where locals can show off and admire classic cars. The showing is held on select Tuesday this summer, but catch them this July for a disco-themed, Warhol-inspired classic car show. Come check it out 5-9pm and visit the Vintage Rides: Classic Car Show site for upcoming themed events.
July 27 – 30: Fiesta del Sol
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For 51 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!
July 27 – 30: Lincolnwood Fest
Four whole days of live music — that’s what attendees can count on when they buy a pass to Lincolnwood Fest. And when not jamming out, wander through the rest of the grounds where you’ll find a carnival and countless food vendors waiting to make your trip to the fest all the better. 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 29 – 30: Chinatown Summer Fair
Every year, this fest held in Chinatown garners more than 40,000 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 29 – 30: Silver Room Sound System Block Party
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“Love to the world” — that is the theme of this music festival located at Oakwood Beach on 39th St. Returning for its 18th year, the team behind the event uses the theme to “fully represent how we feel every year coming together to express our joy, our passion, our creativity! [2023] will be one for the books.” The music lineup is 25+ artists, plus vendor booths, kids stages, local artists, a double dutch experience and so much more. Visit Silver Room Sound System Block Party online and get excited about what’s to come!
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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.
