If you survived the Chicago winter, you’re probably ready to get up and go outdoors. The Matrix Partners team is more than ready, and we’re counting down the days until the city’s hottest events kick off. Join us for some fresh air at some of our favorite events citywide!
5.6 // Kids and Kites Festival at Montrose Harbor Spend the day trying something unique with the family at this kid-friendly event.
5.12-18 // Chicago Critics Film Festival at the Music Box Theater Movie buff? Get in on some unreleased action with the hottest upcoming films.
5.18 // Beer Under Glass at Garfield Park Conservatory Kick off Chicago Craft Beer Week with some tropical plants and local brews.
5.19 // Mayfest at 3100 N Ashland Ave. Street fairs are back! Great food, drinks, performances, and more.
5.20 // Zoo-ologie at the Lincoln Park Zoo Get fancy at this fundraiser with live music and creations from the finest mixologists and chefs.
5.20-21 // Lincoln Park Wine Fest at 1001 West Wrightwood Ave. Grapes, smooth tunes, artists and good eats take center stage at the third annual wine event.
All summer // Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise at Michigan Ave. and Wacker Dr. Grab your camera and capture some of the city’s most beautiful buildings on this boat tour.
5.28 // Bike the Drive on LSD Ever wonder what Lake Shore Drive would be like without cars? Here’s your chance to find out!
All summer // Free days at Chicago museums Art buffs, science geeks, history nerds and everyone in between can learn a little this summer on the city’s museum circuit.
6.9-11 // Chicago Blues Festival at Millennium Park The only thing better than the Blues is a free Blues concert under the stars.
6.10-11 // Wells Street Art Festival This family-friendly street fair is perfect for art and music lovers (or people who really love festival food).
6.13-8.29 // Millennium Park Movie Series at Millennium Park Pack a picnic, grab a seat on the Great Lawn and enjoy free outdoor movies at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.
6.17-18 // Chicago Pride Fest at 3200 N Halsted St. Show your pride and support at Chicago’s famous Pride celebration.
6.23-9.10 // Chicago SummerDance at Grant Park’s Spirit of Music Garden This free event spans the entire summer, with lessons, open dance floors and more than 40 different bands.
6.23-25 // Country Lake Shake at Huntington Bank Pavilion See everyone from Thomas Rhett to Big & Rich at this three-day open-air country music concert.
6.24-25 // Chicago Food Truck Festival at McCormick Place Food trucks are the best trucks.
7.8-9 // Chicago Margarita Festival at the South Shore Cultural Center Taste-test your way to bliss on the beach with this adult-only event.
7.21-23 // Taste of River North at Kingsbury and Erie The best way to try out all the local River North eats in one day.
7.22-23 // Sheffield Music Festival and Garden Walk at Sheffield and Webster Get your garden on with self-guided tours and live entertainment.
8.19-20 // Chicago Air and Water Show at North Avenue Beach Take in some skilled piloting at the largest free show of its kind.
There will definitely be more to come, so let us know your faves in the comments!
