24 Things to Do in Chicago This Weekend (Aug 15–17)
CHICAGO — The city is buzzing this weekend with dozens of events spanning music, culture, food, and fun. Here’s your complete guide to 29 things to do from Friday, August 15 through Sunday, August 17. Whether you’re planning family activities, music outings, or immersive experiences, we’ve got your weekend covered with full event details.
1. Chicago Air and Water Show (Aug 16)
The largest free of its kind in the U.S., this iconic aerial and aquatic display returns to lift spirits and roofs alike .
2. Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest (Aug 15–17)
Now in its 20th year, this volunteer-run fest celebrates local creativity with art booths, live music, and neighborhood hospitality .
3. Great American Lobster Fest (Aug 16–17)
Navy Pier becomes a seafood lover’s paradise with all-you-can-enjoy lobster, music, and regional flavors .
4. The Flaming Lips & Modest Mouse (Aug 16)
Two alt-rock juggernauts share the Salt Shed Outdoors stage for a memorable rock evening .
5. XL FEST 25 (Aug 14–17)
Film panels, indie showcases, and industry gatherings bring a cinematic edge to the weekend .
6. Taylor Street Little Italy Festival (Aug 14–17)
Celebrate Italian-American culture with food, entertainment, and neighborhood history .
7. Roaring Nights at Brookfield Zoo (Aug 16)
Better Than Ezra & Tonic perform at this after-hours concert series in a wild setting .
8. SAUCED Summer Night Market (Aug 15)
A night market spotlighting local vendors, food, crafts, and community energy .
9. Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates (Aug 16–17)
Cheer on the home team and soak in that classic Wrigley vibe .
10. Taste of Black Chicago (Aug 16)
Community-made sounds and cuisine spotlight Black excellence at Greater Grand Crossing Park .
11. Chicago Mural Festival (Aug 16)
Citywide murals, live painting, and cultural experiences brighten up public spaces .
12. SporcleCon 2025 (Aug 15–17)
Join like-minded trivia buffs for games, panels, and pop-culture showdowns .
13. Escape the Museum at Griffin MSI (Ongoing)
Don’t miss “The Wandering Alchemist”—12 nights of immersive museum magic .
14. Guardians of the Earth and Sky Performance (Aug 17)
Mythic storytelling and dynamic costumes bring ancient legends to life .
15. Chicago Fire FC vs. St. Louis City SC (Aug 16)
Live soccer action at Soldier Field—catch the excitement live .
16. PARADE: Tony-Winning Revival (Aug 15–17)
Witness this powerful Broadway revival live on Chicago’s stages .
17. The Cosmic Underground Show (Aug 15–17)
Surreal retro-futuristic magic that’s equal parts mind-bending and fun .
18. “Living in the Shade” Exhibit (Aug 15–17)
Explore public housing through the lens of open space design at the National Museum .
19. The Messi Experience Chicago (Ongoing)
Celebrate soccer brilliance with this immersive Lionel Messi exhibition .
20. Taste of Africa 2025: Afro-Fusion on the Beach (Aug 16)
A vibrant reimagining of African culture through music, art, and fusion flavors .
21. Millennium Park Summer Workouts (Sat mornings until Aug 30)
Active locals can stretch, groove, and energize right under the city skyline .
22. InstaGreeter Riverwalk Tours (Aug 15–17)
Free guided walks along the Riverwalk—an easy, scenic introduction to the city .
23. InstaGreeter Loop Tours (Aug 15–17)
Meet Chicago on foot with one-hour guided loops—perfect for visitors and fans .
24. Big Bus Sunset Live Tour (Ongoing)
Sit back and enjoy live music with panoramic skyline views on a sunset bus tour .
Which of these events will you dive into this weekend? Share your top picks with us at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com—and don’t forget to tag your partners in fun!