THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – CELEBRATING MOM!!!
What a weekend Chicago has planned for us! Not only are we celebrating our Moms this Sunday but we’re also launching Chicago’s summer season – unofficially, of course!!
It’s been a long time coming, but we’re ready for ComEd’s 12th annual Switch on Summer celebration this Saturday (11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.) at Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park (301 S. Columbus Dr.) in the Loop. The activation of Buckingham Fountain is a free, family-friendly event featuring engaging activities for children, families, and residents; cultural performances; music; local vendors; and more. In addition, this event is also the official kick-off for the Chicago Park District’s Night Out in the Parks summer programming which activates parks across the city with cultural events and performances!
Experience a festive race through Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood this Saturday (8 a.m.) for the 15th annual 2026 Cinco de Miler 5 Mile Run at its new location at Union Park (1501 W. Randolph St.). Registration includes exclusive swag; a commemorative Finisher’s Medal; a Big Breakfast of burritos and horchata; one complimentary Beer/Mule (21+); a live mariachi band; and free race photos. And, after crossing the finish line under the iconic 3-story piñata arch, the celebration continues at the Cinco de Miler Cantina for an epic post-race fiesta featuring delicious Mexican treats, ice-cold Mexican Mules, and more. It’s a party you won’t want to miss!
Did you know there’s a festival for those who love all things pickled? You do now, as the Chicago Pickle Fest takes place this Saturday (11 a.m.-6 p.m.) at some of the best bars in the Wrigleyville neighborhood. You’ll be partying all day with pickle beer, pickle cocktails and mocktails, and special pickle-focused food items in honor of this tangy treat. A ticket includes admission, a whiskey shot with pickle back, live bands, access to tasty, pickley products, and more. The world is your pickle at this fest!
Looking for some suggestions on the best ways to pamper your Mom this Sunday on Mother’s Day? Well, here are a few I came across.
Mother’s Day Cruises on the Chicago River from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. departing from the River Esplanade (455 N. Cityfront Plaza Dr.) in the Streeterville neighborhood. Sail through the heart of downtown on select cruises that include bottomless mimosas, face painting for children, and a complimentary rose for every mother.
Mother’s Day Cruises on Lake Michigan from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. departing from Navy Pier (600 E. Grand Ave.) in the Streeterville neighborhood. Treat Mom to chef-prepared dining, skyline views, DJ entertainment, dancing, and family-friendly fun on the lake!
Mother’s Day at Robert’s Pizza & Dough Co. from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. located at 465 North McClurg Court (River East Plaza) in the Streeterville neighborhood. Enjoy their brunch menu and several specials. Plus, all Moms receive a complimentary glass of Prosecco!
Mother’s Day Brunch at Carnivale from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. located at 702 West Fulton Market in the West Loop. Treat Mom to an abundant spread of chef-crafted favorites, festive seasonal dishes, and decadent desserts all served in their iconic, art-filled dining rooms for an unforgettable day with Mom!
Still not sure what to get Mom? Hopefully, this link for Mother’s Day Gifts and Experiences in Chicago will help!
Happy Mother’s Day to ALL our Amazing Moms!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
