8 Things to do in the City & Western Suburbs: July 11

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.

Catch the Classics at Moose Lodge Cruise Nights

Rev your engines for a nostalgic Friday night in Downers Grove. The Moose Lodge welcomes classic cars, muscle cars, and hot rods. Expect shiny chrome, easy conversations, and rows of timeless rides to admire. Bring your car or stroll through for an old-school night out.

Date: July 11
Time: 4PM-8PM
Cost: Suggested Donation $10
Location: Loyal Order of Moose, 1030 Warren Ave, Downers Grove
More Info: downers.us

Meet the Makers at La Grange Craft Fair

One of the country’s top craft fairs returns, turning the streets into an open-air gallery. Stroll past booths filled with ceramics, woodwork, jewelry, and other handmade treasures by artisans from across the U.S. Chat with makers and find a one-of-a-kind piece.

Date: July 12-13
Time: 10AM-5PM
Cost: Free
Location: Downtown La Grange, along La Grange Rd, La Grange
More Info: lgba.com/craft-fair

Bring a Blanket to Movies in the Park: Pirates of the Caribbean

Get ready for a summer night of adventure with a free outdoor screening of Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl. Bring a blanket and some snacks, claim your spot on the lawn, and enjoy sword fights, jokes, and plenty of pirate mischief under the stars.

Date: July 12
Time: 8:45PM-10:45PM
Cost: Free
Location: Scoville Park, 800 Lake St, Oak Park
More Info: oprfchamber.org

Dig In at Windy City Smokeout

Country music and barbecue come together for one epic weekend! This year’s festival brings headliners like Riley Green, Megan Moroney, and Old Dominion. Between sets, sample ribs, pulled pork, and pitmaster favorites from some of the nation’s best BBQ joints. Come hungry and ready to sing along.

Date: July 11-13
Time: Fri 2PM-10PM; Sat & Sun 1PM-10PM
Cost: $99.50+
Location: United Center Lot C, 1901 W Madison St
More Info: windycitysmokeout.com

Taste the World at International Festival of Life

Celebrate global culture without leaving the city. Back for its 32nd year, this sprawling fest fills Washington Park with Caribbean, African, and Latin music, street food from around the world, and a marketplace of crafts and art. From reggae and Afrobeat to gospel and jazz, the weekend’s soundtrack is pure summer energy. Bring the whole family for dancing, shopping, and a taste of global unity.

Date: July 11-13
Time: 12PM-10PM
Cost: $20+
Location: Washington Park, E 51st St and S Cottage Grove Ave
More Info: internationalfestivaloflife.com

Jam Out at Square Roots Festival

Square Roots Festival turns Lincoln Square into a giant block party that’s equal parts music festival and neighborhood hangout. Expect sets from indie and folk acts like Calexico and Ted Leo & The Pharmacists, plus food from local spots, a beer garden, and a kids’ zone packed with hands-on fun. Browse vendors between bands, grab an empanada or bao, and raise a pint to summer.

Date: July 11-13
Time: Fri 5PM-10PM; Sat 12PM-10PM; Sun 12PM-9PM
Cost: $10 Suggested Donation
Location: Lincoln Ave between Montrose Ave and Wilson Ave
More Info: squareroots.org

Find Local Art at Southport Art Fest

Southport Art Fest returns to Lakeview! Stroll past booths from 100 artists showcasing everything from paintings and photography to ceramics and jewelry. Live music, face painting, and a Kids Art Zone keep it family-friendly. It’s free, walkable, and the perfect excuse to linger all afternoon.

Date: July 12-13
Time: Sat 10AM-7PM; Sun 10AM-6PM
Cost: Free
Location: 3733 N Southport Ave
More Info: amdurproductions.com

Feel the Beat at We Are House Music Community Festival

If summer needs a soundtrack, the We Are House Music Community Festival has it. This free two-day street fest in Pilsen fills the neighborhood with nonstop beats from local DJs spinning classic house, deep cuts, and remixes.

Date: July 12-13
Time: Sat 12PM-10PM
Cost: Free
Location: 2200 S Blue Island Ave
More Info: eventbrite.com

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