Top Festivals to Attend This Summer

The ultimate guide to finding a festival that fits anyone’s taste in the city that never disappoints.

In Chicago, there is practically anything to fulfill the enjoyment of their residents and tourists.

Chicago Air and Water Show

Along the lakefront, visit the high-flying, danger-filled Air and Water Show. Taking place on Aug. 19 and 20, the daredevil-esque show has an attendance of more than two million people a year. The military and civilian aircrafts, boats, diving and parachute teams can make anyone leave with a smile.

Chicago Hot Dog Festival

It would be a shame to forget the food Chicago is famous for. During August 11-13 on Stockton and LaSalle Drive, enjoy all of the flavors that come with being a Chicagoan. With the typical “Chicago style” hot dog to new styles by local vendors, there’s something for everyone.

Taste Of Chicago

On July 5-9, Grant Park is hosts the popular Taste of Chicago festival. It has something for everyone, with music, activities and of course, what Chicago is known for: food. This event has been held on the beautiful lakefront every summer since 1980.

Lollapalooza

On August 3-6, experience one of the most fun-filled music festivals in all of Chicago. Fans from miles away travel to Grant Park to get a chance to see artists ranging from Chance the Rapper to Blink-182 to Lorde. The festival is hyped up by many Chicagoans, making it hard for it to go unnoticed.

Freshman Haydin Sorrentino’s favorite part of any music festival like Lollapalooza is getting to see them live and in person.

“You feel their emotion, through the microphone and through the speakers, you feel their whole emotion because you truly hear their voice,” Sorrentino said.

Millennium Park Summer Series

On every Monday and Thursday from June 12 through Aug. 21 there will be upcoming artists at the Millennium Park Summer Music Series. The show is held at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. With all kinds of unique genres like soul jazz, indie and electronic, the variety is endless.

Artfest Michigan Avenue

All artists and art enthusiasts will likely enjoy the creativity this festival brings. Taking place July 21-23 at the base of The Chicago Tribune building looking over Michigan Avenue, over 100 artists display their artwork for everyone to see. It is perfect for aspiring artists or those who just love art.