THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Labor Day Weekend Traditions!
Well, it’s here! This first September weekend takes center stage with Labor Day Weekend traditions here in Chicago as we unofficially close out the summer season. Don’t be disappointed though since the first day of autumn isn’t until September 23rd, so enjoy every day of summer that’s left!
Nothing is more Labor Day traditional than the Chicago Jazz Festival which wraps up this weekend. As usual, some of the biggest names in jazz will gather for a series of free concerts at Millennium Park, the Chicago Cultural Center, and other locations citywide. For a full lineup and day-to-day breakdown of acts and locations, visit the link above and enjoy the many forms of jazz through free, high-quality music programming!
Another Labor Day weekend tradition takes place in the Jefferson Park neighborhood with the annual Taste of Polonia Festival this Saturday and Sunday (12 p.m.-10:30 p.m.) and Monday (the holiday) (12 p.m.-9:30 p.m.) at the Copernicus Center (5216 W. Lawrence Ave.). This popular one-of-a-kind food festival offers a wide variety of authentic Polish food such as kielbasa, pierogi, potato pancakes, and more. Attendees can also take in non-stop, live performances from polka bands and tribute acts, shop from local vendors, grab drinks in the beer garden, or try their luck in the casino. Plus there’s plenty of family fun activities that include bounce inflatables, a climbing wall, face painting, a Kids’ stage, and more. It’s a cultural experience both adults and kids can enjoy!
For the first time ever, the Chicago Labor Day Parade and Eddie Fest is taking place this Saturday in the historic Pullman neighborhood. The parade kicks off at 12:00 p.m. from 108th Street and Cottage Grove Avenue heading south on Cottage Grove to 113th Street. This parade celebrates union pride, solidarity, and community togetherness. Afterwards, the Eddie Fest takes place at Arcade Park (1 p.m.-6 p.m.) featuring food, live music, and plenty of family-friendly activities!
Choosing a new location at Gallagher Way (3635 N. Clark St.) in the Wrigleyville neighborhood and a new weekend (Labor Day), the 8th annual WingOut Chicago takes place this Saturday and Sunday (12 p.m.-8 p.m.). Patrons can indulge in a wide variety of chicken wing flavors sure to get their mouths watering along with cold beverages and even expanded food selections. In addition to the award-winning chicken wings, live music and games will help to create a dynamic festival atmosphere for all to enjoy!
Not too many days will be left to enjoy some late outdoor summer shopping, so the West Loop Art Fest has you covered this Saturday and Sunday (10 a.m.-7 p.m.) at Fulton and Peoria Streets. Shop more than four blocks of amazing art available for purchase in a diverse range of art mediums at this family-friendly festival. Also on hand will be interactive art, wine tastings, live music, and kids’ crafts for a fun-filled day!
Finally, the Fifth Third Bike the Drive is set for this Sunday (6:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.) along DuSable Lake Shore Drive as this lakeside thoroughfare is closed to vehicle traffic for this annual biking event. Cyclists can enter from one of five designated entry points along the route and can bike as little or as much of the 30-mile course as they take in sweeping views of the lake and skyline. Plus, the course will be dotted with rest stops, water, and snacks. Afterwards, enjoy the post-ride festival (8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) in Grant Park! BTW, bike rentals are available.
Have an Enjoyable Labor Day Weekend!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
