Chicago Neighborhood News: Virtual Edition

Just because many warm-weather events are canceled doesn’t mean all hope is lost to have a great summer in Chicago. While we slowly and cautiously try to get back to a new normal, there are plenty of cool happenings going on virtually or safely in person via social distancing. Let’s take a look at some of the fun and exciting goings-on you can take part in this month.

While many movie theaters are still closed, there are great options to get out of the house and enjoy a flick while practicing social distancing. One of these is the Navy Pier Water Flicks Summer Film Series, which runs every Monday from July 20 thru August 24. Now in its fourth year, this free outdoor movie screening takes place at the Lake Stage in Polk Bros Park. Located at 600 East Grand Avenue, the Navy Pier Summer Film Series has plotted out social distance circles on the lawn to maintain safety for all guests. Upcoming screenings include Moulin Rouge, Frozen 2, Casablanca, and Coco. Find more info here. 

If you’re tired of watching movies, Navy Pier also provides an excellent live music series taking place throughout the summer. Every Friday night at 6:30 pm from now until August 21, head over to the Lake Stage in Polk Bros Park located at 600 East Grand Avenue to hear some amazing jazz performances put on by some of the genre’s current greats. The next scheduled performance is Friday, July 24, when the talented Greg Ward and his Rogue Parade deliver an evening of great jazz. The best part? It’s free. Find more info here. 

Chicago’s only major chalk art festival returns this year virtually. In its second year, Chalk Howard Street sees artists creating amazing 3D chalk art on Howard Street in Rogers Park. This summer sees the art fest moving online via a Howard Street Chicago Instagram live event. On Friday, July 17, at 11am check out noted 3D chalk artist Nate Baranowski produce table-top 3D art at Badou Senegalese Cuisine. On Tuesday, July 21, at 11 am the chalk art continues at Lost Era. Baranowski will formulate a piece featuring a product from the antique store that is sure to amaze. Find more info here.

This year West Town’s annual West Fest is coming to you virtually. From July 15 through the 22nd, West Fest will provide a wide variety of musical talent you can stream from the comfort of your home. The live-streamed music kicks off at 6 pm this Friday with performances from Mother Nature, Choir Boy, Automatic, and Ric Wilson. Also, Pet Fest, a staple of West Fest, will offer adoption opportunities virtually via One Tail at a Time and Alive Rescue during the fest in addition to plenty of puppy videos to get your fix of our four-legged friends. A $10 donation is suggested to attend. Find more info here. 

Check out these events either in person or virtually and make the most of your summer in Chicago while practicing social distancing.

ERIC KAPLAN AND DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO