Top 12 Must-See Festivals in Chicago

It doesn’t matter how cold or hot it is outside, Chicago never slows down. Therefore, there’s always something to keep you occupied no matter what time of the year you visit. When you think of all there is to do in the Windy City, it is essential to maintain a bucket list. Below is a comprehensive guide to the absolute top picks in this vibrant city:

01. January: Chicago Restaurant Week

Chicago’s annual celebration of its rich culinary scene occurs at various restaurants— downtown, in local neighborhoods, and in the suburbs. The official Chicago Restaurant Week showcases more than 350 local eateries with prix-fixe menus, allowing diners to explore as many restaurants as possible. If you’re visiting Chicago during those two weeks, it should definitely be on your social calendar.

02. February: Chicago Auto Show

The Chicago Auto Show is celebrated as North America’s oldest and largest auto show, first held in 1901. Each year, this event showcases new trucks and vehicles, making it a must-see for auto enthusiasts.

03. March: St. Patrick’s Day Parades

Every March, the Chicago River is dyed green, bringing festive cheer all around for St. Patrick’s Day. Chicago stands out with two major parades—the Downtown St. Patrick’s Day Parade and the South Side St. Patrick’s Day Parade—taking place within a week. Enjoy the authentic experience at some of Chicago’s top Irish bars where you’re guaranteed a great Guinness pour and more.

04. April: BaconFest Chicago

If you love pork, you’ll be delighted to attend BaconFest, an event featuring top local chefs and bartenders who compete to serve the most creative bacon dishes imaginable. It’s an indulgent experience, complete with bacon-infused desserts, so prepare to bask in the delicious aroma of bacon for days!

05. May: Chicago Craft Beer Week

Chicago’s booming craft beer community is celebrated during Chicago Craft Beer Week, one of the most anticipated events of the year. This 10-day festivity occurs in over 300 venues, coinciding with American Craft Beer Week. Attendees can indulge in tastings of rare beers, explore new releases, and participate in special events.

06. June: Chicago Gay Pride Parade

Chicago Pride’s most famous event, the annual Chicago Gay Pride Parade, kicks off at noon on the last Sunday in June. As one of the largest events of its kind, it takes place in the heart of Boystown, celebrating diversity and community.

07. July: Taste of Chicago

At the Taste of Chicago in Grant Park, admission to the event is free, making it one of the largest food festivals in the U.S. Prices vary for food, drinks, and ticketed concerts. This year, the festival runs from July 5-9, offering local culinary delights from various restaurants and food trucks.

08. August: Lollapalooza

Started in 1991 by Perry Farrell from Jane’s Addiction, Lollapalooza has evolved into one of the largest live music festivals globally. Held the first weekend of August in Grant Park, the festival features several stages and a variety of attractions, including food vendors and a space for children.

09. September: Chicago Gourmet

The annual Chicago Gourmet food festival occurs in Millennium Park and features local, national, and international culinary talent, showcasing a variety of culinary experiences over the course of three days.

10. October: Chicago International Film Festival

The esteemed Chicago International Film Festival, established in 1964, showcases over 150 films from more than 50 countries within its two-week duration, offering a rich cinematic experience to attendees.

11. November: Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

Kick off the holiday season at the annual Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, featuring Mickey and Minnie Mouse along with others. The event lights up more than one million lights on 200 trees, making it a perfect family-friendly occasion filled with entertainment.

12. December: Christkindlmarket

The Christkindlmarket Chicago is a holiday market held in Daley Plaza, running from Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve. This market offers unique crafts, gifts, live entertainment, and delicious German food and drinks, making it the largest event of its kind in the United States.