Chicago officials have announced the lineup of major summer events for 2026, with festivals and activities scheduled throughout the city. Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events released details about upcoming markets, concerts, and annual celebrations.
Farmers markets will return in May, including the Division Street Farmers Market opening on May 16 and the Daley Plaza Farmers Market starting May 21. The Maxwell Street Market will also operate Sundays from May through October.
Millennium Park will host several recurring events such as summer workouts on Saturdays from May 16 to September 15, free concerts at Jay Pritzker Pavilion most Mondays and Thursdays between June 15 and August 6, and free film screenings on Tuesdays from July 1 to August 19.
Pop-up events like SummerDance and Taste of Chicago will take place across different neighborhoods. Major festivals include:
– Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony & Parade: May 23 at Daley Plaza
– Chicago Blues Festival: June 4-7 at Ramova Theatre and Millennium Park
– Taste of Chicago: July 8-12 at Grant Park
– Chicago Gospel Music Festival: July 24-25 at Jay Pritzker Pavilion
– Chicago Air and Water Show: August 15-16 at North Avenue Beach (with rehearsal on August 14)
– Chicago House Music Festival & Conference: August 27-30 at the Chicago Cultural Center and Millennium Park
– Chicago Jazz Festival: September 3-6 citywide, including venues like the Chicago Cultural Center and Millennium Park
– World Music Festival Chicago: September 25–October 4 citywide
– Chicago Made Music Showcase Finale: October 24 at the Chicago Cultural Center
According to city officials, full event details and updates can be found on the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events website.
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