Weekend Events in Chicago

Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony & Parade

The unofficial start of summer also honors the true meaning of the day: remembering U.S. military members who died in service. Join the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Daley Plaza, featuring Sergeant Major Janet Sandoval as the keynote speaker. Her extensive Marine Corps career spans over 20 years. Afterwards, watch the parade along Dearborn Street.

Date: May 23

Location: Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St.

Details: Parade begins noon on Dearborn Street, from Lake Street to Van Buren. More info at chicago.gov

Sueños Music Festival

Launch into festival season with performances by J Balvin, Kali Uchis, and Fuerza Regida at Grant Park. If you miss it, find over two dozen after parties around the city, including one with Fuerza Regida.

Date: May 23-24

Location: Grant Park, entry off Michigan Avenue near Ida B. Wells Drive

Tickets: Starting at $189 (1-day general admission, ages 18+). Purchase at suenosmusicfestival.com

Navy Pier Fireworks

Summer fireworks are back at Navy Pier. Enjoy the displays without worrying about rain forecasts. Catch the fireworks Wednesday and Saturday nights.

Date: May 23

Time: 10 p.m., with ongoing displays at 9 p.m. Wednesdays and 10 p.m. Saturdays through Sept. 5

Location: Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. More details at navypier.org

Warm Love Cool Dreams Music & Arts Festival

Hosted by Empty Bottle at the Salt Shed Fairgrounds, this two-day event features a diverse lineup including Courtney Barnett and Toro Y Moi. Check out the Oddball Market while you’re there.

Date: May 23-24

Location: Salt Shed Fairgrounds, 1357 N. Elston Ave.

Tickets: Starting at $75.20. Available at warmlovecooldreams.com

Belmont Sheffield Music Fest

Experience a Chicago neighborhood festival located in Lakeview. Enjoy tribute bands, local entertainment, artisan markets, and food and drink options.

Date: May 22-24

Time: 5 p.m.-10 p.m. (May 22), 11 a.m.-10 p.m. (May 23-24)

Location: Around 3200 N. Sheffield Ave. More info at lakevieweast.com

Mayfestiversary

Join this Ravenswood festival centered on local breweries. It offers two music stages, food trucks, pop-ups, and children’s activities, with proceeds benefiting The Friendship Center food pantry.

Date: May 23-24

Time: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. (May 23), 11 a.m.-9 p.m. (May 24)

Location: Around 1800 W. Cuyler Ave. More info at mayfestiversary.com

Randolph Street Market Festival

Kicking off its outdoor market with a Garden Party, the festival includes live music, DJs, and over 200 vintage vendors. Indoor shopping is also available.

Date: May 23-24

Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Location: 1341 W. Randolph St.

Tickets: Starting at $14. Get them at randolphstreetmarket.com

The Kid LAROI

The Australian artist known for his hit “Stay” is on tour with his album “Before I Forget.” Catch his performance at Salt Shed.

Date: May 22

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Location: Salt Shed, 1357 N. Elston Ave.

Tickets: Starting at $80. Buy at saltshedchicago.com

Comedy Bang! Bang!

Scott Aukerman, Paul F. Tompkins, and the team perform live, continuing this popular show’s legacy with special guests.

Date: May 28

Time: 8 p.m.

Location: Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St.

Tickets: Starting at $46.25. Available at msg.com

David Koechner

Attend a show with the character actor known for roles in “Anchorman” and “The Office.” His career began in Chicago with iO Theater.

Date: May 22-23

Time: 7:15 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

Location: The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Tickets: Starting at $31. Available at thedentheatre.com

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