THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Another Summer July Weekend to Enjoy!
Welcome to another Chicago summer weekend! As usual, this weekend offers a variety of events that are sure to please everyone for an unforgettable summer July weekend!!
Chicago’s favorite BBQ and Country Music Festival, Windy City Smokeout, returns this summer to a parking lot outside of the United Center (1901 W. Madison St.) on the Near West Side this Saturday and Sunday (1 p.m.-10 p.m.) to celebrate its big anniversary. This annual festival brings together some of the nation’s most talented pitmasters as well as some of country music’s biggest stars. Saturday’s headliner is Luke Bryan while Sunday’s is the Zac Brown Band! Also, exciting events will be happening throughout the weekend to enhance your Smokeout experience!!
Returning for its 10th flavor-packed year, the Chicago Craft Beer Festival sets up at its new location, Jonquil Park (1001 W. Wrightwood Ave.) in the Lincoln Park neighborhood this Saturday (11 a.m.-10 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m.-7 p.m.) for a weekend extravaganza of craft brews. Multiple sessions will be held each day but are limited to 600 people per session, so get your tasting ticket secured, and then grab a bite to eat before you begin sampling!
One of the city’s most beloved art shows of the summer, the Millennium Art Festival takes place at Michigan Avenue and East Lake Street just steps from Millennium Park in The Loop this Saturday and Sunday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.). Guests will be able to enjoy the original artwork of 140 juried artists from all over the country that include an array of ceramics, jewelry, paintings, photography, and more, at all price points. Also, be on the lookout for the Kid’s Art Stop where they can participate in “Draw for the Troops” where they color a special picture for our brave men and women serving our country in both the U.S. and abroad. Plus, the kids can also enjoy some art fest bingo, spin art, coloring, face painting, and a graffiti wall. In addition, live music and food from neighboring restaurants will also be featured. It’s a family-friendly show not to be missed!
Calling all beachgoers! Get ready for 16 hours of music and 14 incredible artists at this year’s Volleywood taking place at North Avenue Beach (1600 N. Lake Shore Dr.) in the Lincoln Park neighborhood this Saturday and Sunday. This event boasts live music, local food, full-service bars, and interactive experiences for an unforgettable time on the sand. Ticket options include a general admission ticket or spring for a cabana for you and 11 of your friends which is stocked with beer, refreshments, and offers private restrooms. It’s Chicago’s only beach front music fest!
Voted the #1 Best Cultural Festival for two years in a row, the Water Lantern Festival takes place at Lincoln Park’s South Lagoon (2045 W. Lincoln Park West) in the Lincoln Park neighborhood this Saturday (5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.). This floating lantern festival features activities, food trucks, games, music, and vendors. Then at 8:30 p.m. it’s time to design your lantern adorned with letters of love, hope, happiness, healing, peace, or connection for launching at 9:30 p.m. as guests Light the Water together! This family-friendly event is a great way to create a fun, peaceful, and memorable experience!!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
