Yes, the 4th is over. That doesn’t mean you need to catapult into retiring your warm weather wardrobe. Don’t close the books on Chicago’s buzziest season just yet. There are still plenty of things to do, movies to see, and hot dogs to eat.
Celebrate our “Sister Cities.”
Unifest
Every Thursday night from now until Aug 17
Chicago Sister Cities International has arranged a spread of deliciously cultural proportions. Sample food, drinks, and music from Shanghai, Delhi, Bogota, Athens, and more. Vacate your normal routine, and jet to the Riverwalk for Kaiser rolls, Colombian rum, and Swedish meatballs. How many languages can you say “yum” in?
Catch a few outdoor flicks. Popcorn not included.
The Summer of Cage
Jul 20, The Wicker Man & Aug 24, Gone in Sixty Seconds, Millenium Park, 1425 N Damen Ave
“Full Moon” double feature
Aug 8, Ghost & The Shining, Millenium Park
Round out the Nic Cage films everyone loves to hate. Wicker Park hosts the final two features in a festival dedicated to our own national treasure. You can also opt into moonlit showings of Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze’s ethereal pottery “lesson” or Jack Nicholson flirting with isolation-driven madness.
Catch fireflies & send kids to camp.
Firefly Ball
Jul 21, The Modern Wing of The Art Institute of Chicago, 159 E Monroe St
What’s more nostalgic than summer camp? Afford children in high-risk neighborhoods the chance to make their own memories via Off the Street Club. “Light their way” by twirling your summer cocktail attire across The Art Institute floor.
Find your roots.
The Great Lawn
Jul 22-23, Harrison Field at UIC, 836 W Harrison St
Whether you’re Lollapalooza-bound or sitting this year out, a stellar folk-rock & roots lineup (Greensky Bluegrass, Houndmouth, Dr. Dog, Shovels & Rope) is ready to roll. Welcome this brand new festival presented by Goose Island, WXRT, Silver Wrapper & Madison House.
Save on the concrete strip.
Andersonville Sidewalk Sale
Jul 28-30, Andersonville, Clark Street
A day in Andersonville collecting discounted treasures? Yes, please. The annual Clark Street awakening brings local businesses outside their own doors and into your closet, kitchen, and home. See the full list of participants here.
Get grilled.
Chicago History Museum’s 5th Annual Hot Dog Fest
Aug 11-13, Chicago History Museum, Stockton & LaSalle Dr
Like traditional frankfurters? Prefer some zest or enough toppings to make your ‘dog unrecognizable? Either way, Chicago’s best vendors gather to honor the essence of summer eating. Come hungry.
Move your body.
Solar Eclipse Block Party
Aug 21, Adler Planetarium, Museum Campus, 1300 S Lake Shore Dr
92 years of waiting has paid off. An eclipse is coming. Witness the moon take center stage at Earth’s most epic block party. Free fun including music, food trucks, and science demos will accompany the Sun’s “break” from stardom.