THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – PLANNING TO BE A SCORCHER!

Look out folks — we’re going to get scorched this weekend!  So as you’re out and about enjoying all the festivities, be sure to stay hydrated and covered up with light, loosely fitting clothes.  After all, you don’t want to be mistaken for an over-grilled sausage!!

Amdur Productions is once again returning to the base of the Tribune Tower (435 N. Michigan Ave.) on the Near North Side for its 4th annual Artfest Michigan Avenue this Saturday (10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.).  It’s a fine art festival showcasing the work of 70 juried artists from across the country in a wide variety of mediums.  From gorgeous glass and jewelry to functional wearables and sustainable, up-cycled artworks, this festival has something for everyone!  It also has a relaxing view of the Chicago River- making this a must go-to event!!

The pavement of Howard Street (1617 W. Howard St.) in the Rogers Park neighborhood will become a canvas for artists during their NEW Chalk Howard Street-Art Festival this Saturday (11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.).  This family-friendly festival will not only feature internationally renowned 3D street artists, local 2D chalk artists, amateur artists, and kids’ art, but also live music, entertainment, food, drinks, and an immersive art experience!  It’s where you can be you!!

Chicago’s Water Lantern Festival takes place this Saturday at the Humboldt Park lagoon (1400 N. Humboldt Dr.).  At this family-friendly event you’ll experience the magic of thousands of lanterns as the soft lights reflect upon the water.  Gates open at 5:30 p.m., enjoy food trucks & music (5:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m.), design your lantern (8:00 p.m.), then launch your lantern (9:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m.)!  It’s a festival filled with fun, happiness, hope, and great memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime!!

Help raise money for the families of fallen police officers and firefighters at this year’s Rock the Badges VII at Six Corners (Milwaukee Ave./Irving Park Rd./Cicero Ave.) in the Old Irving Park neighborhood this Saturday (12:00 p.m.-10:30 p.m.) and Sunday (12:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m.).  Cheer on your favorite police and/or fire bands as they rock this 7th annual event for the First Responder Charity Fundraiser.  Your admission ticket makes you eligible for a variety of free door prizes.  Split-the-pot cash raffles will be held throughout the event and you can win a variety of gift certificates and other wonderful items via raffle tickets!  Select food trucks will be serving up their favorites as well!!  So arrive early, eat early, and then get ready to rock!!!

The Humana Rock N Roll Chicago Marathon Series takes place this Saturday and Sunday at Grant Park (337 E. Randolph St.) in The Loop.  This 11th annual 13.1-mile block party offers two days of running.  The 5K takes place Saturday (8:00 a.m.) in Grant Park while the 10K and Half Marathon are on Sunday (6:30 a.m.) through the streets of downtown.  Live local bands and entertainment will be on hand throughout the course!  And the celebration wraps up with a free finish line festival and headline concert!!

This weekend’s Movies in the Parks are:

Saturday
“Black Panther” – Bradley Park (9729 S. Yates Ave.) — Jeffery Manor section of South Deering
“E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” – Horner Park (2741 W. Montrose Ave.) – Irving Park
“Spider-Man:  Into the Spider-Verse” – Washington Park (5531 S. King Dr.) – Woodlawn

Sunday
“The Grinch” – Jonquil Park (1001 W. Wrightwood Ave.) – Lincoln Park

Don’t Get Scorched!  Be Safe!!