THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – May Opens with a Parade, Derby & More!
Welcome to May! This weekend opens with a parade, some racehorses, and Chicagoland zoos.
Not only is Chicago’s oldest continuously running parade kicking-off our first weekend in May but it also is celebrating its 135th year this Saturday (11 a.m.-2 p.m.) at 700 South Columbus Drive in the Loop. The Polish Constitution Day Parade celebrates Polish culture and the 1791 Constitution (Europe’s first democratic constitution) featuring marching bands, dancing, music, floats, and more. In addition, food trucks and vendors will be offering delicious Polish cuisine. Whether you’re Polish or not, everyone is welcome to join in the day’s festivities!
The 152nd Kentucky Derby is this Saturday held at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky with a post time of 6:57 p.m. (ET). If you’re unable to make it to Kentucky for this event, don’t worry as several Chicago venues will be hosting their own Kentucky Derby events. In fact, here are a few to get you started.
The Joy District: Welcome To The Grandstands will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at 112 West Hubbard Street in the River North neighborhood for a “Grand Stand” experience. Bring your Derby Day to new heights at this rooftop watch party featuring Derby fashion, themed cocktails, and large screen viewing for an all-afternoon affair offering cityscape views and lush greenery. It’s sure to deliver a high-roller’s party scene for the most exciting two minutes in sports!
The J. Parker: Running of the Roses Party will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Hotel Lincoln (1816 N. Clark St.). This Lincoln Park rooftop attraction, perched above Hotel Lincoln, is the neighborhood’s most stunning outdoor setting with panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline you won’t find anywhere else in the city. So, don your best Derby fashion, pull up a seat, sip on one of the many specialty cocktails, and watch the roses fly at this indoor/outdoor viewing party!
The Utopian Tailgate: Down & Derby will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at 1608 North Wells Street in the Old Town neighborhood above the legendary Second City. This sprawling indoor/outdoor space also offers skyline views atop Old Town’s premier rooftop and high-energy landscape. This “Down & Derby” party features large-screen race viewing; festive Derby attire, especially the hats; mint juleps, mimosas, and beer; and themed food. It’s a high-energy party with activities centered around the Derby!
Perhaps you’re not into horses but prefer another animal. Well, it just so happens that there’s an adults-only evening event Saturday Night at Lincoln Park Zoo from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at 2001 North Clark Street in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. Enjoy a special after-hours stroll through the grounds of the Zoo while viewing the gardens and animal habitats. The evening also continues with pop-up bars stocked with adult beverages, concession stands with your favorite zoo foods, a live DJ, live music, Karaoke, a fun photo booth, and more. So why not take a break from your usual routine and do something different for a change. It’s the perfect start to our upcoming summer season!
Launched on the cusp of the spring equinox, enjoy a journey of light, art, and conservation as you experience Glow Wild: A Lantern Festival of Hope now through May 10, Thursdays through Sundays (6 p.m.-10 p.m.) at Brookfield Zoo (8400 W. 31st St.) in Brookfield. This event allows guests of all ages to share in the magic of wandering paths under the moonlight that are illuminated by handcrafted lanterns representing wildlife and mythology from around the world. Plus enjoy live performances, global music and dance, storytelling, unique food experiences, and rides on the Carousel and the Ferris Wheel. It’s truly a spectacular night of lanterns aglow, and not to be missed!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
