Spring has sprung across Chicagoland and there many exciting events to fill your calendar! From family events to date night activities, there’s something for everyone—here are a few of our top picks to check out this weekend.
Experience the Summer Kickoff Street Party
Downtown Elmhurst kicks off the season with a colorful celebration featuring the debut of Umbrella Sky, a colorful canopy installation suspended above Schiller Court. Live music from The Reception and local beverages add to the block-party vibes, with the City Centre Fountain Plaza as the weekend’s main hub.
Date: May 31
Time: 4PM-7PM
Cost: Free
Location: City Centre Fountain Plaza, 143 N York St, Elmhurst
More Info: elmhurstcitycentre.com
Get Crafty at Spring Ikebana Demonstration
Experience the quiet beauty of Japanese floral design as artist E-Ling Lou of the Ohara School creates intricate ikebana arrangements using spring blooms and branches sourced from the Arboretum grounds. The demo takes place in the serene Temperate Asia Collection and coincides with the unveiling of a new ukiyo-e-inspired art installation by Rich Lo.
Date: May 30
Time: 10AM-11AM
Cost: $21
Location: The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rt 53, Lisle
More Info: mortonarb.org
Honor Heritage at Kapwa!: Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Celebration
This family-friendly gathering in Oak Park celebrates Asian Pacific Islander Desi American heritage through food, music, and storytelling. Expect performances by local students, interactive art and writing workshops, and a collective songwriting session led by Sona Umbra; plus APIDA-themed raffles and sustainable bites from neighborhood restaurants.
Date: May 31
Time: 9:15AM-11:15AM
Cost: Free
Location: Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake St, Oak Park
More Info: oak-park.us
Have Fun at Do Division Street Fest
This West Town staple brings together indie music, local shopping, and plenty of activities for all ages. Catch sets curated by The Empty Bottle and Subterranean across two stages, then browse sidewalk sales and street vendors between sets. Don’t miss the petting zoo and mega slide at Family Fun Fest or the neighborhood-runway of Do Fashion’s live show.
Date: May 30-June 1
Time: Fri 5PM-10PM; Sat & Sun 12PM-10PM
Cost: $10 Suggested Donation
Location: Division St from Damen Ave and Leavitt St
More Info: westtownchamber.org
Taste Your Way Through Windy City Hot Dog Fest
Is ketchup allowed? You decide. At this Portage Park celebration of Chicago’s favorite street food, top local vendors compete for best hot dog honors. There’s also live music, family activities, and a community stage showcasing neighborhood talent. Brought to you by the Six Corners Chamber of Commerce, this fest is a summertime essential.
Date: May 30-June 1
Time: Fri 4PM-10PM; Sat & Sun 12PM-10PM
Cost: Free
Location: 4000 N Milwaukee Ave
More Info: chicagoevents.com
Search the City at ScavHunt: Flavors of the City
This three-day, citywide scavenger hunt challenges players to explore Chicago through food, art, and creativity; all while raising funds for the Respiratory Health Association. Dress up, form a team, and compete for cash prizes, trophies, and bragging rights. Bonus points for the best team name and most over-the-top costume.
Date: May 30-June 1
Time: Fri 10AM-Sun 9PM
Cost: $5
Location: Anywhere in The Loop
More Info: adventures.playeatlas.com
Sip and Celebrate at Sabor Y Cultura
This celebration of Mexican culture brings together music, food, and craft spirits for a night to remember. Enjoy unlimited tequila and mezcal tastings, live performances ranging from mariachi to ballet folklórico, and vendors serving up authentic eats and artisan goods, all in support of local causes.
Date: May 31
Time: 4PM-9:30PM
Cost: $66+
Location: Morgan Arts Complex, 3622 S Morgan St
More Info: saborevent.com
Lace Up for the ABC7 Gibbons 5K Run and 3K Walk
Named in honor of late sportscaster Jim Gibbons, this annual run/walk supports the Leukemia Research Foundation. The family-friendly event winds through Montrose Harbor and includes a 5K run, 3K walk, and activities for kids. Proceeds go directly to leukemia research and patient support.
Date: May 31
Time: 8:30AM
Cost: $20+
Location: Montrose Harbor, 400 W Montrose Harbor Dr
More Info: leukemiarf.org
