With long days and warm nights, summer weekends are made for exploring. Whether you’re staying local or venturing out, here are a few events worth adding to your calendar.
March Proudly at Bud Billiken Parade
Chicago’s iconic Bud Billiken Parade is back, turning Martin Luther King Jr. Drive into an amazing celebration of youth and heritage. Expect marching bands, colorful floats, step teams, and crowds cheering on local schools and community groups. It’s the nation’s largest Black parade and a long-standing tradition filled with family-friendly fun.
Date: August 9
Time: 10AM-4pm
Cost: Free
Location: Washington Park, 5531 S Martin Luther King Dr
More Info: budbillikenparade.org
Dance All Weekend at Northalsted Market Days
Northalsted Market Days turns four city blocks into Chicago’s liveliest festival of summer. With live music across multiple outdoor stages, 250+ vendors, spectacular drag performances, and dance shows, it’s a celebration of community and culture. Friday night kicks off with Saucy Santana, Monét X Change, and Ralphi Rosario, signaling the start of two full days of music and good times.
Date: August 8-10
Time: Fri 5PM-10PM; Sat & Sun 12PM-10PM
Cost: $20 Suggested Donation
Location: Halsted St from Belmont Ave to Addison St
More Info: northalsted.com
Stroll and Shop the Printer’s Row Art Fest
Set against the backdrop of Chicago’s historic printing district, this annual juried art fair brings life and color to Dearborn Street. You’ll find nearly 100 artists showing everything from paintings and photography to sculpture, street art, and handcrafted jewelry. But it’s not just about the shopping: enjoy live music, interactive art stations (like on-the-spot poem writing), and plenty of nearby cafés and patios to refuel between booths. Whether you’re looking for a new statement piece or just want a weekend stroll with flair, this fest delivers.
Date: August 9-10
Time: 10AM-5PM
Cost: Free
Location: 728 S Dearborn St
More Info: amdurproductions.com
Dig In at Taste of Bronzeville Food Festival
You’ll want to come hungry to the Taste of Bronzeville Food Festival, where the event is part family reunion, part block party, and all about community. This homegrown fest is designed to spotlight Bronzeville’s culinary talent, with local restaurants serving up everything from smoky BBQ to soul food staples. Alongside the food, you’ll find live entertainment, activities for kids, and a chance to support small businesses.
Date: August 9
Time: 11AM-5PM
Cost: $10
Location: XS Tennis, 5336 S State St
More Info: tasteofbronzeville.com
Relive the Hits at 2000s Night at the Zoo
Break out your cargo pants and flip phone! 2000s Night at the Zoo is bringing back the early aughts for one wild evening at Lincoln Park Zoo. This adults-only event (sorry, no kids or strollers) features throwback hits from a live band and DJ, karaoke, nostalgic photo ops, and pop-up bars serving your favorite drinks. Enjoy after-hours access to zoo exhibits, ride the carousel for free, and more.
Date: August 9
Time: 6:30PM-10PM
Cost: $48
Location: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N Clark St
More Info: eventbrite.com
